Thomas Hobbes and Poltical Realism

Political Realism

A theory that sees power, not ethics or values, as the main driver of politics

How does political realism view morality in politics

• Secondary or irrelevant

• Power determines outcomes

How does political realism view agreements or treaties?

They can be broken at any time if it benefits power or survival.

What is Hobbes mainly concerned with?

The necessity of the state to prevent chaos and violence.

What pre-modern idea does Hobbes reject?

The belief in a natural or objective concept of “good.”

What famous phrase summarizes Hobbes’s view of life without government?

The misery of the natural condition of mankind.”

How does Hobbes describe human equality?

Humans are equal in mind and body.

Why do small differences in strength or intelligence not matter?

Tools and weapons act as equalizers, making anyone capable of harm.

What does equality of body and mind lead to?

Equality of hope — if one can obtain something, others believe they can too.

What arises from equality of hope?

Competition.

What happens when two people desire the same thing?

They become enemies.

How does Hobbes describe life in the state of nature?

Nasty, brutish, and short.”

Why is war inevitable according to Hobbes?

Because competition, insecurity, and ego are natural to humans.

Do humans choose conflict, according to Hobbes?

No — conflict arises naturally from human equality and fear.

Is domination part of human nature for Hobbes?

Yes — it’s necessary for self-preservation.

What is the first cause of conflict?

Competition → gain → violence.

What is the second cause of conflict?

Diffidence (insecurity) → safety → defense.

What is the third cause of conflict?

Glory/Reputation → ego → pride.

Together, what do the causes of conflict explain?

Human egoism and constant conflict.

How does Hobbes define war?

Not just fighting, but constant readiness and awareness of conflict.

What happens where there is no common power?

There is no law and no justice.

What are the two “cardinal virtues” in war?

Force and fraud.

What happens to property without a higher power?

There is no “mine” or “yours” — only possession by force.

Why is suspicion constant in the state of nature?

Everyone fears being attacked or robbed.

Are even kings secure?

No — even rulers must constantly prepare for war.

How did people view science in Hobbes’s time?

As neutral, perfect, and capable of solving all problems.

Why does Hobbes challenge the view of science as neutral, perfect, and capable of solving all problems?

Science is done by humans, who are biased and flawed.

Where does Hobbes ground truth?

In human nature, not abstract logic or science alone.

What is the natural condition of humanity?

A perpetual state of war.

Why do humans create laws of nature?

To seek peace and escape misery.

Can anything be good or bad without law?

No — morality depends on law and power.

What is the Leviathan?

A powerful government that maintains order and peace.

Why do people obey the Leviathan?

It provides security and stability.

What do people give up under government?

Some individual rights in exchange for safety.

How does Hobbes relate to international politics today?

The global system lacks a supreme authority → resembles a state of nature.

How is Hobbes connected to the UN?

It was created to reduce constant war, reflecting Hobbesian fears.

Why does power still matter more than rules globally?

There is no ultimate enforcer of law between states