These responses provide clarification for Rousseau's argument in the First Discourse, and begin to develop a theme he further advances in the Discourse on Inequality – that misuse of the arts and sciences is one case of a larger theme, that man, by nature good, is corrupted by civilization. Inequality, luxury, and the political life are identified as especially harmful.
These responses offer clarification to Rousseau's argument in "The First Discourse," and begin to develop a theme he further elaborates upon in "Discourse on Inequality" – that misuse of the arts and sciences is one instance of a broader concept, that man, by nature good, is corrupted by civilization.  Inequality, luxury, and political life are identified as particularly harmful.