Thomas Hobbes's Leviathan

Definition

Thomas Hobbes's 'Leviathan' is a foundational text in political philosophy published in 1651, where Hobbes argues for a strong, centralized authority to prevent chaos and disorder in society. The book reflects the challenges of the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly the impacts of civil war, religious conflict, and the need for social stability through a social contract.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hobbes wrote 'Leviathan' during the English Civil War, which influenced his views on the necessity of strong governance to avoid societal breakdown.
2. 'Leviathan' uses the metaphor of a monstrous sea creature to symbolize the power and authority of the state, which Hobbes believed was essential for maintaining order.
3. Hobbes argued that in the absence of a powerful sovereign, life would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,' emphasizing his belief in the need for strong leadership.
4. The book presents a materialist view of human nature, suggesting that people are driven by self-interest and fear, which necessitates the establishment of social contracts.
5. 'Leviathan' has been highly influential in both political theory and modern discussions about authority, individual rights, and governance.

Review Questions

• How does Hobbes's idea of the social contract address the challenges faced during the 16th and 17th centuries?
  • Hobbes's concept of the social contract directly responds to the turmoil and instability experienced during the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly amidst civil wars and religious conflicts. By advocating for individuals to collectively agree to surrender certain freedoms to an authoritative sovereign, he proposed a solution to prevent chaos. This centralized power would ensure societal order and protect citizens from the violent anarchy that could arise in a state of nature.
• In what ways does 'Leviathan' justify absolute monarchy as a necessary form of government?
  • 'Leviathan' justifies absolute monarchy by arguing that a single ruler possesses the authority needed to maintain peace and prevent conflict within society. Hobbes posits that without such central power, people would revert to a state of nature characterized by fear and violence. He contends that only an absolute monarch can enforce laws decisively and ensure that individuals adhere to social contracts, thereby maintaining stability in society.
• Evaluate the implications of Hobbes's view on human nature for modern governance and political thought.
  • Hobbes's portrayal of human nature as self-interested and fearful has significant implications for modern governance and political thought. His argument suggests that effective governance requires strong institutions capable of managing these inherent tendencies through laws and regulations. This perspective has influenced contemporary discussions around state power, individual rights, and civil liberties. It raises important questions about balancing authority with personal freedom while ensuring social order in diverse political systems.

Related terms

Social Contract:

A theory proposing that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of a ruler or government in exchange for protection of their remaining rights.

Absolute Monarchy:

A form of government where a single person holds all political power, often justified by the belief that the monarch's authority comes directly from divine right or natural law.

State of Nature: A concept used by Hobbes to describe a hypothetical condition in which humans exist without any political authority, characterized by chaos and constant conflict among individuals.