Thomas Hobbes (copy)

make flashcards on these terms and use the other info to help make them

Power

Natural Equality

Felicity

Good and Evil (in the State of Nature)

Three Primary Sources of Conflict in the State of Nature

State of Nature

Right of Nature

Laws of Nature (First 3)

The Fool

Civil Laws

Justice

Liberty

Good Laws

other info- "Describe the main theme of Hobbes' Leviathan." "Leviathan explores life without sovereign authority and examines the type of political authority needed to prevent a state of nature."

"How does Hobbes characterize the state in Leviathan?" "Hobbes compares the state to an 'artificial man,' analyzing its components and the covenants that form it."

"Define the 'state of nature' as described by Hobbes in Leviathan." "The state of nature is a condition without political authority, characterized by chaos and conflict among individuals."

"What are the three key aspects Hobbes theorizes about in Leviathan?" "Hobbes theorizes about human nature, the conditions of life in the state of nature, and the necessary government to avoid those conditions."

"What role does the sovereign play according to Hobbes in Leviathan?" "The sovereign has rights and authority that are essential for preserving order and preventing the dissolution of society."

"Describe the process of deductive reasoning." "Deductive reasoning involves starting with general premises and deriving a specific conclusion that logically follows from those premises. For example, if all people are mortal and Socrates is a person, then Socrates is mortal."

"Explain the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning." "Deductive reasoning leads to a conclusion that necessarily follows from the premises if they are true, while inductive reasoning involves making generalizations based on specific observations, which may not always be true."

"How does Hobbes utilize deductive reasoning in his work 'Leviathan'?" "Hobbes uses deductive reasoning by starting with observations about human nature, inferring what the state of nature must be like, and concluding what form of commonwealth should follow based on those premises."

"Define inductive reasoning with an example." "Inductive reasoning involves making generalizations based on specific instances. For example, observing that Swan 1, Swan 2, and Swan 3 are white leads to the conclusion that all swans are white, though this may not be true."

"What is a key characteristic of conclusions drawn from deductive reasoning?" "A key characteristic of conclusions drawn from deductive reasoning is that they are logically necessary, meaning if the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true."

"Describe the main conflict during the English Civil War." "The English Civil War was a series of violent conflicts between the Crown, led by Charles I, who believed in the divine right of kings, and Parliament, partly led by Oliver Cromwell, which argued that the King was answerable to Parliament."

"Define the role of Oliver Cromwell in the English Civil War." "Oliver Cromwell was a key leader of Parliament during the English Civil War and later became the Lord Protector after the monarchy was temporarily abolished."

"How did the English Civil War impact the monarchy in England?" "The English Civil War led to the execution of Charles I for treason in 1649 and the temporary abolition of the monarchy and House of Lords until 1660."

"What was the significance of Charles I's execution in 1649?" "Charles I's execution marked a pivotal moment in the English Civil War, symbolizing the conflict between the monarchy and Parliament and the rejection of the divine right of kings."

"Explain the concept of competing claims to sovereignty during the English Civil War." "The English Civil War featured competing claims to sovereignty, with Charles I asserting absolute power as king and Parliament insisting that he must govern in conjunction with them."

"Describe the significance of Hobbes' birth date in relation to historical events." "Hobbes was born on April 5, 1588, during the time of the Spanish Armada's invasion of England, which influenced his philosophical views on fear and human nature."

"How does Hobbes relate his birth to the concept of fear?" "In his verse, Hobbes mentions that he was born alongside 'Fear,' indicating that fear is a fundamental aspect of his philosophy, particularly in his work 'Leviathan'."

"Define the role of fear in Hobbes' philosophy as suggested in the content." "Fear plays a critical role in Hobbes' philosophy, as it is a driving force behind human behavior and societal structures, particularly discussed in chapters 13-15 of 'Leviathan'."

"What literary device does Hobbes use to describe his birth?" "Hobbes uses a poetic verse to describe his birth, linking it to the historical context of the Spanish Armada and the theme of fear."

"Do Hobbes' early experiences influence his later philosophical ideas?" "Yes, Hobbes' birth during a time of conflict and fear likely shaped his views on human nature and the necessity of social order, as explored in his later works."

"Describe the right of nature according to Hobbes." "The right of nature is defined by Hobbes as the liberty each man has to use his own power for the preservation of his own life, allowing him to do anything he judges necessary for that purpose."

"How does the right of nature affect individual rights in the state of nature?" "In the state of nature, since everyone has the right to do whatever they judge necessary for their security, individuals effectively have no enforceable rights, as everyone can claim the same unrestricted rights."

"What example illustrates the implications of the right of nature?" "An example is that a person can use wood from the forest to build shelter, but so can everyone else, leading to competition and conflict over resources."

"Define the consequences of everyone possessing the right of nature." "The consequence is that it leads to dismal conditions in the state of nature, as individuals may resort to violence or theft to secure their own survival."

"How does Hobbes describe the extent of the right of nature in relation to others?" "Hobbes states that in the state of nature, every man has a right to everything, including the bodies of others, which can justify actions like killing for self-preservation."

"What does Hobbes mean by 'the aptest means' in the context of the right of nature?" "'The aptest means' refers to the actions an individual believes are most effective for ensuring their own self-preservation, based on their judgment and reasoning."

"Explain the relationship between the right of nature and self-preservation." "The right of nature is fundamentally about self-preservation, as it allows individuals to take any action they deem necessary to protect their own lives."

"What is the paradox of rights in the state of nature as described by Hobbes?" "The paradox is that while individuals claim unrestricted rights to secure their own safety, these claims conflict with the rights of others, leading to a lack of true security."

"Define a law of nature according to Hobbes." "A law of nature, according to Hobbes, is a precept or general rule discovered by reason that forbids actions destructive to one's life and encourages actions that preserve it."

"Describe the nature of laws of nature in the state of nature according to Hobbes." "In the state of nature, laws of nature are not externally binding or enforceable due to the absence of a sovereign authority, but it is imprudent not to follow them."

"How does Hobbes differentiate between laws of nature and proper laws?" "Hobbes states that laws of nature are conclusions or theorems about self-preservation, while proper laws are commands from someone with rightful authority over others."

"What would make laws of nature properly considered laws according to Hobbes?" "If laws of nature are treated as commands of God, they would be properly considered laws."

"What role does reason play in discovering laws of nature according to Hobbes?" "Reason is used to discover conclusions or precepts that help individuals escape the state of nature."

"Explain why Hobbes believes it is foolish not to follow the laws of nature." "Hobbes believes it is imprudent or foolish not to follow the laws of nature because they guide individuals towards self-preservation."

"What are the implications of the absence of a sovereign authority in the state of nature?" "The absence of a sovereign authority means that laws of nature are not enforceable, leading to a reliance on individual reason and prudence."

"Describe Hobbes' first law of nature." "Hobbes' first law of nature is to seek peace, as he believes that every individual should endeavor to achieve peace as far as they have hope of obtaining it."

"How does Hobbes view individuals who do not seek peace?" "Hobbes considers individuals who do not seek peace to be foolish, as they choose to remain in the dangerous state of nature where everyone has a right to everything, including each other's bodies."

"Define the state of nature according to Hobbes." "The state of nature, according to Hobbes, is a condition where every man has a right to everything, leading to a situation that is perilous and detrimental to survival."

"What is the implication of seeking peace in Hobbes' philosophy?" "Seeking peace is essential for survival, as it helps individuals avoid the dangers associated with the state of nature."

"How does Hobbes suggest individuals should act when peace cannot be obtained?" "Hobbes suggests that when peace cannot be obtained, individuals should seek and use all helps and advantages of war."

"What does Hobbes believe about the relationship between peace and survival?" "Hobbes believes that prudent individuals recognize the dangers of the state of nature and that seeking peace improves their chances of survival."

"Explain why Hobbes considers the state to be the greatest power." "Hobbes claims that the state is the greatest power because it provides order and security, which are essential for individuals to escape the chaos of the state of nature."

"Describe the second law of nature according to Hobbes." "Hobbes' second law of nature is to contract in the way of peace, meaning individuals should be willing to lay down their right to all things in exchange for peace and mutual defense."

"How does Hobbes believe individuals should approach their rights in relation to others?" "Hobbes believes individuals ought to lay down their right to all things and agree with others not to engage in harmful actions, such as killing or stealing."

"What condition do people remain in if they retain their right to all things according to Hobbes?" "According to Hobbes, if people retain their right to all things, they remain in a condition of war."

"What is the inalienable right that Hobbes states cannot be laid down?" "Hobbes states that the right to self-defense is inalienable and cannot be laid down."

"What is the primary reason for individuals to lay down their right to all things according to Hobbes?" "The primary reason is to leave the state of nature and obtain bodily security."

"How does Hobbes justify the necessity of self-defense even within society?" "Hobbes argues that a person should not passively allow themselves to be killed, as it is better to resist and face the danger of death than to accept certain death."

"What does Hobbes mean by 'man by nature chooseth the lesser evil'?" "Hobbes means that individuals will choose to face the danger of death in resisting an assault rather than accept the greater evil of certain death by not resisting."

"What actions does Hobbes suggest individuals should agree not to do in order to maintain peace?" "Hobbes suggests individuals should agree not to kill, steal resources, or engage in other harmful actions."

"What does Hobbes imply about the relationship between peace and individual rights?" "Hobbes implies that to achieve peace, individuals must be willing to limit their rights in certain ways, particularly their right to all things."

"How does Hobbes view the state of nature in relation to personal safety?" "Hobbes views the state of nature as a dangerous condition where individuals cannot ensure their personal safety without laying down certain rights."

"Describe Hobbes' third law of nature." "Hobbes' third law of nature is to be just, which requires individuals to fulfill their agreements or covenants made."

"How does Hobbes define justice?" "Hobbes defines justice as the fulfillment of covenants made; without prior covenants, there can be no rights or injustices."

"Explain the relationship between covenants and justice according to Hobbes." "According to Hobbes, breaking a covenant is unjust, and the definition of injustice is the non-performance of a covenant."

"What role does a sovereign government play in Hobbes' view of justice?" "A sovereign government is essential for ensuring that people honor their agreements, providing coercive power to compel performance of covenants."

"What does Hobbes mean by 'covenants without the sword'?" "Hobbes means that covenants without the enforcement of power (the sword) are merely words and lack the strength to secure compliance."

"How does Hobbes' view of justice compare to Glaucon's proposal in The Republic?" "Hobbes' view of justice shares similarities with Glaucon's proposal, particularly in the emphasis on the importance of covenants and agreements."

"What is the implication of not having a third party to enforce covenants according to Hobbes?" "Without a third party to enforce covenants, individuals face the risk of returning to a state of nature, where agreements are not honored."

"Define injustice in the context of Hobbes' philosophy." "Injustice, in Hobbes' philosophy, is defined as the failure to perform a covenant."

"What does Hobbes suggest is necessary to prevent breaches of covenants?" "Hobbes suggests that a coercive power is necessary to prevent breaches of covenants, using the threat of punishment to ensure compliance."

"How does the concept of the prisoner's dilemma relate to Hobbes' views on cooperation?" "The prisoner's dilemma illustrates the risks of cooperation without third-party enforcement, highlighting the need for a governing authority to ensure agreements are upheld."

"Define Hobbes' conception of power." "Hobbes defines power as a means 'to obtain some future apparent good' and classifies it into two types: original and instrumental."

"Describe the two classifications of power according to Hobbes." "Hobbes classifies power as (i) original, which includes natural faculties of the body like strength and intelligence, and (ii) instrumental, which includes powers obtained through luck or assistance, such as money, friends, and reputation."

"How does Hobbes relate power to human desires?" "Hobbes argues that humans have a natural inclination to struggle for power to satisfy their desires, stating that this desire for power continues until death."

"Summarize Hobbes' view on happiness." "For Hobbes, happiness depends on a person's success in satisfying desires, one after another, and is linked to the accumulation of power."

"Explain the significance of accumulating power according to Hobbes." "Accumulating power is beneficial as it helps ensure that individuals can satisfy many of their future desires."

"What does Hobbes mean by saying people are organic machines?" "Hobbes suggests that people are driven by their desires, being drawn to what they love and repelled by what they hate."

"How does Hobbes view the relationship between power and future desires?" "Hobbes views power as valuable because it enables individuals to obtain what they consider desirable and avoid what they judge undesirable, thus facilitating the satisfaction of future desires."

"What is the general inclination of mankind according to Hobbes?" "Hobbes posits that there is a 'perpetual and restless desire of power after power' that ceases only in death."

"Describe the greatest power according to Hobbes." "Hobbes identifies the greatest power as the state or commonwealth, which is compounded of the powers of most men united by consent in one person."

"How does Hobbes define the power of a commonwealth?" "Hobbes defines the power of a commonwealth as the collective power of many individuals that is united by consent, allowing for coordinated action to achieve common goals."

"What is the significance of having servants and friends according to Hobbes?" "Hobbes states that having servants and friends is a form of power because they represent strengths that are united."

"Explain the concept of 'summum malum' in Hobbes' philosophy." "The 'summum malum' refers to the greatest evil, which Hobbes argues is death, and he suggests that while people may disagree on what is good, they can all agree that death is undesirable."

"What motivates people to obey a common power according to Hobbes?" "Hobbes notes that the desire for ease and sensual delight, as well as the fear of death and wounds, motivate people to obey a common power."

"How do needy and ambitious individuals react to common power in Hobbes' view?" "Hobbes suggests that needy and ambitious individuals may continue causes of war and stir up trouble, as they seek honor and improvement of their conditions through conflict."

"What will be examined in the next class regarding Hobbes' ideas?" "The next class will explore how life becomes wretched in the absence of a common power."

"Define the role of a commonwealth in achieving defense according to Hobbes." "A commonwealth plays a crucial role in achieving defense against invasion by harnessing the collective power of individuals for coordinated action."

"Describe the main philosophical difference between Plato and Hobbes regarding metaphysics." "Plato supports traditional metaphysics with the concept of The Forms, while Hobbes rejects it in favor of materialism."

"Define the perspective of Plato on the nature of good and evil." "Plato views good and evil as objective."

"How does Hobbes perceive the nature of good and evil?" "Hobbes perceives good and evil as subjective."

"What is Plato's view on justice?" "Plato believes justice is natural."

"Explain Hobbes' understanding of justice." "Hobbes views justice as conventional."

"How do Plato and Hobbes differ in their views on happiness?" "Plato believes happiness comes from disciplining desires, while Hobbes thinks it involves satisfying desire after desire."

"What philosophical categories do Plato and Hobbes represent?" "Plato represents rationalism, while Hobbes represents empiricism."

What does Hobbes believe about human nature?

Hobbes views people as organic machines pursuing self-interest, particularly self-preservation.

How does Hobbes define good and evil?

For Hobbes, good and evil are subjective; people call things good if they love them and evil if they hate them.

What is the summum malum according to Hobbes?

The summum malum, or 'greatest evil', is death, which nearly everyone agrees should be avoided.

What is Hobbes' view on happiness?

Hobbes believes happiness is a continuous process of satisfying endless desires; unhappiness arises when desires are thwarted.

How does Hobbes view power?

Hobbes sees power as essential for obtaining what people consider good and avoiding what they see as bad.

What forms can power take according to Hobbes?

Power can take various forms, including strength and reputation.

What does Hobbes say about natural equality?

Hobbes claims that people are naturally equal in faculties of body and mind, with differences being minor.

What is the problem of natural equality according to Hobbes?

Natural equality leads to equality of hope, causing people to see each other as threats when they desire the same things.

What are the three primary sources of quarrel in the state of nature?

1) Competition for resources, 2) Diffidence or distrust, 3) Glory or pride.

What is 'diffidence' in Hobbes' view?

Diffidence is the inability to trust others, leading individuals to preemptively attack to ensure their survival.

What does Hobbes mean by 'vain conceit'?

Hobbes uses 'vain conceit' to describe the belief that one is wiser than others, which he considers unfounded.

What motivates people to resort to violence according to Hobbes?

Desire for survival, glory, ambition, pride, and reputation.

What is the consequence of individuals existing without a common power?

A state of war: every person against every other.

How does Hobbes define war?

War is not just fighting, but a time when the will to contend is known.

What is life like without a common power according to Hobbes?

Solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.

Does Hobbes believe people are immoral by nature?

No, he argues desires and passions are not sins until laws are known.

What happens in the state of nature regarding justice?

Nothing can be unjust; there is no law or common power.

What does Hobbes say about the right of nature?

It is the liberty to use one's power for self-preservation.

What is necessary for justice according to Hobbes?

People must come together to create a society with laws.

What does Hobbes suggest as a means to avoid the state of nature?

Reason suggests convenient articles of peace.

What does the right of nature allow a person to do?

A person has the liberty to use resources, like wood from a forest, to build shelter for protection.

What is the consequence of everyone having the right of nature?

People effectively have no enforceable rights as everyone has the same right to claim resources for security.

What does Hobbes say about self-preservation in the state of nature?

Everyone has the right to do whatever it takes to ensure their self-preservation, even harming others.

How does Hobbes define a law of nature?

A law of nature is a precept found by reason that forbids destructive actions and encourages preservation.

Why are laws of nature not enforceable in the state of nature?

There is no sovereign authority to enforce them, making them imprudent to ignore.

What is Hobbes' first law of nature?

Seek peace as far as one has hope of obtaining it; if not, use all means of war.

Why is it foolish not to seek peace according to Hobbes?

Not seeking peace keeps one in the state of nature, where everyone has a right to everything.

What is Hobbes' second law of nature?

Contract in the way of peace by laying down the right to all things for mutual security.

What must people do to escape the condition of war according to Hobbes?

They must agree not to harm each other by laying down their right to all things.

What condition do people remain in according to Hobbes?

A condition of war as long as they retain their right to all things.

What is inalienable according to Hobbes?

The right to self-defense.

What is the primary reason for laying down the right to all things?

To leave the state of nature and obtain bodily security.

What does Hobbes say about laying down the right of self-defense?

A man cannot lay down the right of resisting assault because it does not aim at any good for himself.

What does Hobbes suggest a person should do if threatened?

A person should resist rather than allow themselves to be killed.

What is Hobbes' third law of nature?

Be just!

What does justice require according to Hobbes?

That men perform their covenants made.

What happens if covenants are not fulfilled?

They become empty words, risking a return to the state of nature.

What is Hobbes' definition of injustice?

The non-performance of a covenant.

What is necessary for establishing justice according to Hobbes?

A sovereign government that ensures covenants are upheld.

What does Hobbes say about covenants without coercive power?

They are but words and have no strength to secure a man.

What does the fool say about justice?

There is no such thing as justice.

Why is the fool considered foolish by Hobbes?

They overestimate their abilities and underestimate others, risking a return to the state of nature.

What must people avoid to not think like the fool?

They must not refuse to follow society's rules.

What is the next reading assignment?

Leviathan, Chapters 16 and beyond.

What does the futation of the fool rely on?

Assumption of natural equality.

What is the main idea in Leviathan, Ch. 16-19?

Formation of the commonwealth to escape the state of nature.

What drives people to establish authority according to Hobbes?

Desire for order and preservation.

What does Hobbes believe about human nature?

Hobbes thinks people are roughly equal by nature.

What are the primary sources of conflict in the state of nature according to Hobbes?

Competition, diffidence, and glory.

How does Hobbes describe life in the state of nature?

Miserable: 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short'.

What right do people possess in the state of nature?

The right of nature to secure their existence.

What does Hobbes suggest to avoid the state of nature?

Consult reason and adhere to the laws of nature.

What are the first three laws of nature according to Hobbes?

Seek peace, make contracts that promote peace, and be just.

How does Hobbes define natural persons?

Persons whose words or actions are considered their own.

How does Hobbes define artificial persons?

Persons whose words or actions represent another's.

How is an artificial person created according to Hobbes?

A natural person authorizes another to represent them.

What does Hobbes say about the multitude and representation?

A multitude becomes one person when represented by one with consent.

What is the role of the common representative in Hobbes' theory?

To unify conflicting individual wills into a single will.

What does Aristotle say about man in Politics?

Man is by nature a political animal.

What does Hobbes argue about mankind's ability to cooperate?

Mankind cannot cooperate without a coercive power.

What leads to conflict among people according to the text?

Competition for honor and dignity leads to envy, hatred, and ultimately conflict.

How do ants and bees differ from humans regarding common and private good?

Ants and bees promote the common good by pursuing their private good, while for humans, these often diverge.

What do many people overestimate according to the text?

Many people overestimate their abilities and presume they are more fit to rule than others.

How does Hobbes view human cooperation?

Hobbes believes humans typically cooperate only through covenants or agreements.

What is required to enforce cooperation among egoists according to Hobbes?

A third party, referred to as the 'sword', is required to enforce cooperation among egoists.

What is the Nash equilibrium in the Prisoner’s Dilemma?

The Nash equilibrium occurs when both players defect, resulting in the outcome '3, 3'.

What strategy can lead to cooperation in repeated games?

The tit-for-tat strategy can lead to cooperation in repeated games.

What is a commonwealth according to Hobbes?

A commonwealth is formed when individuals authorize one person to use their strength for peace and common defense.

How is a commonwealth formed among a multitude?

It is formed by mutual covenants where individuals give up their right to govern themselves to a sovereign.

What is the role of the sovereign in a commonwealth?

The sovereign is created by the contract and does not agree to anything; they remain in the state of nature.

Can the sovereign commit a wrong according to Hobbes?

The sovereign cannot commit a wrong as they are not a party to the contract and remain in the state of nature.

Can the sovereign commit a wrong?

No, the sovereign cannot act unjustly as they retain rights to necessary actions.

What do subjects grant to the sovereign?

Subjects grant the sovereign absolute power to secure peace.

What happens if a subject refuses to comply with the sovereign?

Refusing to comply, such as not paying taxes, is considered injustice.

What right do subjects retain against the sovereign?

Subjects retain the right of self-defense against the sovereign.

How can commonwealths be created according to Hobbes?

Commonwealths can be created by institution or by acquisition.

What is sovereignty by institution?

Sovereignty gained by the consent of the people to protect against others.

What is sovereignty by acquisition?

Sovereignty gained by natural force, subduing enemies to will.

What motivates individuals to submit to a sovereign?

The will to survive motivates individuals to submit to avoid death.

What power does the sovereign have regarding opinions?

The power to determine which opinions threaten peace, e.g., censorship.

What is one power of the sovereign in society?

The power to establish general rules for society, including property rights.

What disputes can the sovereign adjudicate?

The sovereign has the power to adjudicate all disputes between subjects.

What international affairs can the sovereign handle?

The power to manage war, peace treaties, and public good.

What role does the sovereign have in appointing officials?

The power to appoint counsellors, ministers, and other officers.

What power does the sovereign have regarding subjects?

The power to reward and punish subjects, e.g., fines and prison sentences.

What is the power of the sovereign in a commonwealth?

The sovereign has the power to reward and punish subjects, including prison sentences and fines.

What are the two main advantages of joining a commonwealth?

Greater preservation and commodious living.

What is the role of the sovereign in relation to the social contract?

The sovereign is not a party to the social contract and remains in the state of nature.

What should guide the sovereign's behavior?

The laws of nature, such as the 11th law: rule equitably and impartially.

What does Hobbes suggest about the sovereign's actions?

The sovereign can act as they judge best, but certain actions may be unwise.

What are the three kinds of commonwealth according to Hobbes?

Monarchy, Aristocracy, Democracy.

What is the principle behind the legitimacy of commonwealth forms?

All forms must secure the people against violent conflict and death.

Why is sovereignty indivisible according to Hobbes?

Having multiple sovereigns would lead to civil war, undermining the purpose of sovereignty.

What is the key difference between the three kinds of commonwealth?

The difference lies in their convenience to produce peace and security, not in power.

Why might one prefer monarchy according to Hobbes?

Hobbes believes public and private interests are best united in a monarchy.

What does Hobbes believe about monarchy and public/private interest?

Hobbes thinks public and private interest are best united in a monarchy.

What does Hobbes say about a monarch's riches?

A monarch's riches arise from the riches, strength, and reputation of their subjects.

What can happen in democracies according to Hobbes?

Officials may benefit by favoring specific groups at the expense of others.

Why can't monarchs disagree with themselves?

Monarchs cannot disagree with themselves, preventing conflict.

What can happen if assembly members disagree?

Disagreement among assembly members can lead to conflict or civil war.

What is Hobbes' view of mankind's nature?

Mankind is unsocial and cooperation is risky due to potential defection.

What does Hobbes say about the role of a sovereign?

A sovereign is essential for enforcing agreements and mitigating risks in cooperation.

What is the basis of commonwealths according to Hobbes?

Commonwealths are grounded in a form of consent where individuals covenant to lay down their rights.

Who owns the sovereign's actions according to Hobbes?

Subjects author and own all of the sovereign's words and actions.

What power does the sovereign hold?

The sovereign holds absolute power to preserve the lives of the subjects.

Can the sovereign be considered unjust according to Hobbes?

No, the sovereign cannot be considered unjust as they retain the right of nature.

What does Hobbes expect for the subjects under a sovereign?

Hobbes expects subjects will be preserved and enjoy commodious living.

What type of sovereign does Hobbes prefer?

Hobbes demonstrates a clear preference for an absolute monarch.

What does Hobbes mean by 'negative' liberty?

Negative liberty is the absence of external impediments to motion.

How does Hobbes define a free man?

A free man is one who is not hindered in doing what he has the will to do.

How does Hobbes relate liberty to fear?

Liberty and fear are consistent; consent to the social contract can arise from fear for life.

How does Hobbes relate liberty to necessity?

Liberty and necessity are consistent; determinism means desires are not freely chosen.

What does Hobbes consider freedom?

Freedom is doing what you have the will to do, even if your will forms deterministically.

What is Hobbes' definition of law?

Law is command, specifically from a sovereign to subjects obliged to obey.

What are civil laws according to Hobbes?

Civil laws are commands by the sovereign that define right and wrong.

What is the purpose of civil laws?

Civil laws limit natural liberty to ensure peace and prevent harm among individuals.

Can the sovereign be bound by the laws they command?

No, the sovereign can free themselves from any law they create.

How do civil laws affect individual liberty?

Civil laws restrict liberty to prevent harm and promote assistance among individuals.

What is the state of nature according to Hobbes?

In the state of nature, laws are prudential maxims, not commands from authority.

What happens if punishments for crimes are too weak?

Weak punishments may not deter individuals from committing crimes like theft.

What does Hobbes say about the liberty of subjects?

Subjects are free to do anything not expressly prohibited by the sovereign.

What are 'artificial chains' in civil society?

Artificial chains are the restrictions imposed by civil laws on individual liberty.

What happens if punishments for crimes are too weak?

Subjects may still choose to steal as the fear of punishment does not override their desire.

What does Hobbes argue about sovereigns and laws?

Sovereigns should use 'good laws' to promote happiness and prosperity in society.

What is the purpose of laws according to Hobbes?

To direct people and prevent them from harming themselves due to rash desires.

What distinguishes a good law from a weak law?

A good law is needful for the people and benefits both the sovereign and the subjects.

What liberties do citizens of the commonwealth enjoy?

Liberty to buy, sell, choose abode, diet, trade, and educate children.

What does Hobbes suggest about public charity?

Public charity may be provided to the impotent to avoid uncertain charity risks.

Where does the sovereign's right to punish originate?

It is grounded in the right of nature, not a concession from subjects.

What must subjects avoid when claiming self-defense against punishment?

Subjects must exercise prudence and not abuse their right to self-defense.

What idea threatens the stability of the commonwealth?

The belief that individuals are the private judges of good and evil.

What must be regarded in civil society according to Hobbes?

Civil law must be regarded as authoritative.

What is the individual's role in determining good and evil?

The individual is the private judge of what is good and evil.

What must civil society regard as authority in determining justice?

Civil law must be regarded as the authority in determining what is just and unjust.

What does the notion of the sovereign being subject to civil laws imply?

The sovereign can be unjust if they violate civil laws, suggesting a higher authority may adjudicate disputes.

What are natural rights or absolute property rights?

The sovereign may not infringe on subjects' property rights without their consent.

What can the belief in divided sovereignty lead to?

It can lead to competing claims to power and potential civil war.

What does Hobbes say about the separation of spiritual and temporal powers?

Hobbes believes civil authority and religious authority must be in the same hands to avoid civil war.

What does Hobbes think about the capability of people to learn Leviathan's lessons?

Hobbes believes most people can understand and learn the lessons of Leviathan.

Where does Hobbes recommend instructing individuals?

Hobbes recommends instructing individuals at university.

What is the main concern regarding the current instruction of youth?

Current instruction has entrenched dangerous doctrines threatening political stability.

What does Hobbes believe is necessary to counter harmful teachings?

Educating students in the principles of Leviathan is necessary to preserve peace.