Thomas Hobbes and the Concept of Leviathan

Thomas Hobbes

English philosopher known for political realism.

Leviathan

Hobbes' work advocating for strong government.

State of Nature

A world without government or laws.

Human Nature

Pessimistic view of selfish, violent humans.

Social Contract

Agreement to form government for security.

Sovereign

Single ruler with absolute authority.

Mortal God

Sovereign's power likened to divine authority.

Rights in Hobbes' Government

Most rights given up for protection.

Right to Self-Preservation

Only retained right under Hobbes' authority.

Sources of Conflict

Competition, fear, and glory drive human conflict.

Laws of Nature

Rules promoting survival and peace.

Absolute Authority

Necessary to prevent chaos and conflict.

Civil War Influence

Shaped Hobbes' belief in strong governance.

Maintaining Peace

Sovereign can do anything necessary for order.

Covenants

Agreements essential for societal stability.

Authoritarianism

Hobbes advocates absolute rule to prevent anarchy.

Influence on Liberalism

Ideas based on consent influenced liberal thought.

Diffidence

Fear leading to preemptive strikes in conflict.

Glory

Desire for dominance over others.

Life Without Government

Described as solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, short.