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Thomas Hobbes: Political Philosophy

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Summary

An overview of Thomas Hobbes' political theories, focusing on his views on human nature and the Social Contract as outlined in Leviathan.

Thomas Hobbes: Political Philosophy

Highlights

Philosophical Foundation

  • Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) authored Leviathan.

  • His views were shaped by the horrors of the English Civil War.

  • He perceived all humans as inherently selfish and wicked.

  • Strong governments were deemed necessary to maintain societal order.

The Social Contract and Governance

  • Under Hobbes’ Social Contract, people surrender their rights to a stronger government.

  • In exchange, the state ensures law and order.

  • He advocated for an absolute monarchy.

  • Critical inquiry: What are the advantages and disadvantages of this Social Contract model?

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Original text

Thomas Hobbes 1588-1679

  • Wrote Leviathan

    • Horrors of the English Civil War

  • All humans selfish and wicked

  • Governments needed to keep order

  • Hobbes’ Social Contract

    • People gave up their rights to a stronger government

    • In exchange, government would keep law and order

    • Believed in an absolute monarchy

  • Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Hobbes’ Social Contract?