Thomas Hobbes and His Political Philosophy
Introduction
Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) was a pivotal figure in the development of modern political philosophy. His
most significant work, Leviathan, introduces the concept of the social contract and argues for a powerful
sovereign authority to maintain peace and order. This study guide summarizes key concepts, themes,
and important works related to Hobbes's philosophy, providing a comprehensive overview for exam
preparation.
Key Concepts
1. State of Nature
o Definition: A hypothetical condition without political authority, characterized by chaos
and conflict.
o Characteristics:
▪ Life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short."
▪ Individuals act out of self-preservation, leading to a "war of all against all."
o Influence: Hobbes's view was shaped by the English Civil War, highlighting the dangers
of anarchy.
2. Social Contract
o Definition: An agreement among individuals to form a society and establish a
government for security and order.
o Key Idea: Individuals consent to surrender certain rights to a sovereign in exchange for
protection.
o Quote: "Covenants, without the sword, are but words."
o Significance: This theory shifted the basis of political legitimacy from divine right to the
consent of the governed.
3. Sovereignty
o Definition: The ultimate authority in a political community, which Hobbes argues must
be absolute.
o Key Idea: The sovereign's power is derived from the social contract, necessary to
prevent a return to the state of nature.
o Controversy: Hobbes's advocacy for absolute sovereignty sparked debates with
contemporaries like John Locke.
4. Human Nature
o Materialism: Hobbes views humans as complex machines driven by desires and
aversions.
o Key Idea: Humans are inherently self-interested, motivated by the pursuit of pleasure
and avoidance of pain.
o Influence: His materialist philosophy was influenced by the scientific revolution,
particularly figures like Galileo and Descartes.
5. Fear and Security
o Role of Fear: Fear, especially of violent death, compels individuals to seek peace and
establish government.
o Key Idea: The sovereign's primary role is to provide security and protect citizens from
their worst instincts.
6. Law and Justice
o Definition of Law: Laws are commands from the sovereign; justice is defined by
adherence to these laws.
o Key Idea: Good laws promote the common good and are essential for societal order.
o Quote: "No law can be unjust."
Important Works
1. Leviathan (1651)
o Overview: Hobbes's most famous work, detailing his theories on the state, human
nature, and the social contract.
o Significance: Considered a masterpiece of political philosophy, advocating for a powerful
sovereign to prevent societal collapse.
2. De Cive (1642)
o Overview: A precursor to Leviathan, focusing on the social contract and political
authority.
o Significance: Lays the groundwork for Hobbes's later, more developed ideas.
3. Elements of Law (1640)
o Overview: Discusses human nature and the foundations of society.
o Significance: Provides insight into Hobbes's evolving thoughts on political philosophy.
Influential Figures
• Galileo Galilei and René Descartes
o Influence: Their works shaped Hobbes's materialist views and method of reasoning.
o Significance: Hobbes's interest in science led to a comprehensive philosophical system
encompassing Body, Man, and Citizen.
• John Locke
o Contrast: Locke's views on government and human nature differ sharply from Hobbes's,
particularly regarding the state of nature and individual rights.
o Significance: While Hobbes advocated for absolute sovereignty, Locke argued for limited
government and the protection of individual rights.
Key Themes for Discussion
1. The Role of Fear in Politics
o Explore how fear shapes Hobbes's views on governance and authority.
o Discuss the implications of fear as a motivator for social order.
2. The Nature of Sovereignty
o Analyze the implications of Hobbes's argument for absolute sovereignty in modern
political thought.
o Examine the tension between individual rights and state power.
3. Comparative Analysis with Other Philosophers
o Compare Hobbes's views on human nature and the social contract with those of Locke
and Rousseau.
o Discuss the evolution of social contract theory from Hobbes to contemporary political
thought.
Conclusion
Thomas Hobbes's political philosophy is foundational to modern political theory. His insights into human
nature, the necessity of a social contract, and the role of a sovereign authority continue to influence
contemporary discussions on governance and political legitimacy. Understanding Hobbes provides
critical context for exploring the complexities of political thought and the evolution of ideas about
authority and individual rights.
