The influential French philosopher known for advocating individual rights is Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Active during the Enlightenment, Rousseau's works, such as "The Social Contract" and "Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality Among Men," emphasized the importance of natural rights, freedom, and equality. His ideas were foundational to modern democratic thought and significantly influenced political philosophy, arguing for the social contract between citizens and government. Rousseau's belief that legitimate political authority must be based on the general will inspired revolutionary movements and discussions about individual freedoms and civil rights that are still relevant today.