Key Concepts from Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to Thomas Hobbes' philosophical ideas in his work 'Leviathan'.

Leviathan

A book written by Thomas Hobbes discussing the structure of society and legitimate government.

State of Nature

The hypothetical condition of humanity without political society, characterized by chaos and conflict.

Social Contract

An implicit agreement among individuals to form a government and abide by its rules in exchange for security and social order.

Sovereign

The authority or governing entity that has the ultimate power to enforce laws and maintain order.

Natural Equality

The concept that all individuals are inherently equal in strength and ability.

First Law of Nature

The principle that suggests individuals should seek peace as far as they can attain it.

Right of Nature

The liberty of individuals to do whatever they deem necessary for their survival.

Felicity

A continual and restless desire for power that ceases only upon death.

Contract and Covenant

A contract is a mutual agreement, while a covenant involves a promise that may be fulfilled later.

Bad Science

Concepts or definitions that are contradictory and do not accurately represent reality.