Thomas Hobbes (better version)

Leviathan

a foundational text in political theory written by Thomas Hobbes

human nature

the thought that humans are self-interested and driven by their fears and desires

state of nature

the condition where a government does not exist, total freedom, the right to everything and everyone

social contract according to Hobbes

an agreement between the people and the government, used as a way to instill order in the state of nature (which is in total chaos); people are expected to give up some of their rights and freedoms in this contract in exchange for secruity

sovereign

the absolute authority in a government

morality and law

does not exist in the state of nature, only becomes a thing when there is a government

vital motions (involuntary)

natural, automatic functions (i.e., heart beating, breathing)

voluntary motions (intentional)

actions that begin with intention and thought, driven by endeavours

appetite

motion towards something

aversion

motion away from something

good

the object of any man’s appetite or desire, beneficial and pleasing

evil

the object of aversion, harmful and displeasing

reason

the process of logically adding up causes and effects

liberty in the state of nature

the natural freedom to do as you wish, everyone has complete liberty

right (in the state of nature)

the natural entitlement individuals have to preserve their own life and pursue their interests without interference

power

the ability to influence or control the actions of others, often associated with authority or strength in a social context

the first law of nature

seek peace and follow it

the second law of nature

lay down your right to all things

the third law of nature

keep you covenants

the ninth law of nature

every man should acknowledge equality in others

the tenth law of nature

no one should reserve rights they’re unwilling to grant to others

natural rights retaind

self-preservaiton

natural rights surrendered

the right to do whatever you want, the right to judge and punish others, the right to decide what is just or unjust

natural rights granted

liberty, justice, property, and security

Leviathan as a metaphor

A representation of a strong central authority, depicting the necessity of a social contract for peace and order in society

matter

the people who make up the commonwealth

form

the structure of authority, how the sovereign power is arranged

power

the sovereign’s right to rule

monarchy (favored)

sovereignty held by one person

aristocracy

sovereignty held by a small group

democracy

sovereignty held by the people

does Hobbes believe a sovereign can be tyrannical?

no