The Lost Estate

"The Lost Estate" is a concept from French philosophy, particularly associated with Jean-Jacques Rousseau and later thinkers, illustrating a sense of disconnection from one's true nature or authentic identity. It describes the feeling of being estranged from one's innate qualities or moral sense due to societal influences, leading to alienation and a loss of genuine self-awareness. This idea emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with natural virtues and authentic existence amid the complexities of social life, encouraging introspection and personal authenticity.