"Reading, solitude, idleness, a soft and sedentary life, intercourse with women and young people, these are perilous paths for a young man, and these lead him constantly into danger"

This quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau is a warning to boys about the potential risks of specific activities. Checking out, solitude, idleness, and a soft and inactive life can all cause an absence of purpose and instructions, and can lead to a life of aimlessness and apathy. Interacting with ladies and youths can likewise give danger, as it can lead to a life of temptation and vice. Rousseau is alerting young men to be knowledgeable about the prospective mistakes of these activities, and to be mindful of the repercussions of their actions. He is encouraging young men to be proactive in their lives, and to strive for a life of purpose and meaning. By being aware of the prospective threats of these activities, boys can make better decisions and lead a more fulfilling life.