Hobbes

Definition

Thomas Hobbes was a 17th-century English philosopher who is best known for his work in political philosophy, particularly his book "Leviathan," where he discusses the structure of society and legitimate government. Hobbes believed in the necessity of a strong central authority to avoid the chaos and violence he thought natural to human life in the state of nature.

Related terms

State of Nature:

A concept used by Hobbes to describe a hypothetical condition characterized by a lack of political authority or government, revealing the brutish life humans would lead without it.

Social Contract:

The theory that individuals unite into political societies by a process of mutual consent, agreeing to abide by common rules and accept duties to protect themselves and one another.

Leviathan:

A book written by Thomas Hobbes in which he details his doctrine of the foundation of states and legitimate governments, arguing for an absolute sovereign as the only solution to prevent societal collapse into chaos