Outline Montesquieu and Rousseau's thought on politics and government. How do they differ?

I. Introduction
A. Brief overview of Montesquieu and Rousseau
B. Importance of their contributions to political thought

II. Montesquieu's Thought on Politics and Government
A. Separation of powers
1. Division of power among different branches of government
2. Checks and balances to prevent tyranny
B. Importance of laws
1. Laws as a means to protect individual liberties
2. Laws as a reflection of the general will of society
C. Influence of climate and geography on government
1. Different forms of government suited to different climates
2. Climate's impact on people's character and political institutions

III. Rousseau's Thought on Politics and Government
A. Social contract theory
1. Individuals voluntarily surrender some rights for the common good
2. Government's legitimacy derived from the consent of the governed
B. General will
1. The collective will of the people as the basis of legitimate government
2. Government's role to enact and enforce the general will
C. Direct democracy
1. Preference for small, self-governing communities
2. Emphasis on citizen participation and decision-making

IV. Differences between Montesquieu and Rousseau
A. Role of government
1. Montesquieu: Government as a means to protect individual liberties
2. Rousseau: Government as an expression of the general will
B. Separation of powers
1. Montesquieu: Division of power among different branches of government
2. Rousseau: Emphasis on direct democracy and citizen participation
C. Influence of climate and geography
1. Montesquieu: Climate and geography shape different forms of government
2. Rousseau: Climate and geography less influential, focus on social contract

V. Conclusion
A. Recap of Montesquieu and Rousseau's thoughts on politics and government
B. Importance of their ideas in shaping modern political systems
C. Continued relevance of their theories in contemporary political discourse