Thomas Hobbes

Definition

Thomas Hobbes was an English philosopher best known for his political theory, particularly in his work 'Leviathan,' where he argues for a strong central authority to prevent societal chaos. His ideas significantly influenced political thought during the Renaissance, as they were a reflection of the turbulent times and the rediscovery of ancient Greek philosophy, especially in relation to governance and human nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hobbes believed that in the state of nature, life would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short' due to constant competition and conflict among individuals.
2. He argued that a powerful sovereign, or Leviathan, was necessary to impose order and prevent civil war through a social contract where individuals relinquish certain freedoms for protection.
3. Hobbes's philosophy marked a significant departure from earlier political thinkers by emphasizing the need for absolute authority over the more classical ideals of shared governance from ancient Greece.
4. His ideas contributed to the development of modern political philosophy, influencing subsequent thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who expanded on or opposed his views.
5. The rediscovery of ancient Greek texts during the Renaissance provided a framework for Hobbes's thoughts on human nature and governance, leading him to draw on classical notions of power and authority.

Review Questions

• How did Hobbes's concept of the state of nature influence his views on governance?
  • Hobbes's view of the state of nature depicted it as a chaotic and violent condition without authority, leading him to advocate for a strong central government. He believed that humans are naturally self-interested and competitive, necessitating a powerful sovereign to maintain peace and order. This perspective fundamentally shaped his argument for a social contract where individuals give up some freedoms in exchange for security provided by an absolute ruler.
• In what ways did Hobbes's ideas diverge from those of ancient Greek philosophers regarding governance and human nature?
  • Hobbes diverged significantly from ancient Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, who emphasized virtuous leadership and the role of citizens in governance. While Greek thought often focused on democracy or aristocracy as ideals, Hobbes argued that without a powerful sovereign to enforce laws, society would descend into chaos. His emphasis on fear and self-preservation as motivations starkly contrasted with the Greek belief in rationality and civic virtue.
• Evaluate the impact of Hobbes's work 'Leviathan' on later political philosophy and its relevance in modern contexts.
  • 'Leviathan' had a profound impact on later political philosophy by establishing foundational concepts such as the social contract and absolute sovereignty. Its relevance continues today as debates over governmental authority versus individual liberties echo Hobbes’s arguments. As contemporary societies grapple with issues like security versus freedom, Hobbes’s ideas provide a lens through which we can understand the ongoing tension between maintaining order and preserving personal rights in political discourse.

Related terms

Social Contract: An implicit agreement among individuals to form a society and abide by its rules and norms for mutual benefit.

Leviathan: 'Leviathan' is Hobbes's seminal work published in 1651, where he discusses the structure of society and legitimate government and creating an objective science of morality.

State of Nature: A concept used by Hobbes to describe the condition of humanity without political authority, characterized by chaos and conflict.