3 - Hobbes and the State of Nature

Question 1

What is a failed state?

Answer 1

• No recognized authority with a monopoly on the legitimate use of force
• Cannot ensure public order and security

Question 2

What is the state of nature?

Answer 2

A thought experiment performed by Hobbes where he imagine life without a state and political power in an attempt to convince society on the necessity of the state

Question 3

Hobbesian Themes

Answer 3

• Fear
• War
• Peace

Question 4

Worst case scenario for Hobbes

Answer 4

• No protection from the state

- A powerful state is needed to avoid disastrous interpersonal conflict

Question 5

Hobbes thought humans were

Answer 5

• Introspective
• Materialistic
• Sought felicity
• Power-seeking
• Predominantly self-regarding
• Seek to enhance reputation
• Averse to their own death and consistently seek to combat any threats against their lives
• Equally vulnerably and equally able (can kill and be killed)

Question 6

Risks of war (Hobbes)

Answer 6

• Equality
• Scarcity
• Uncertainty

Question 7

3 reasons for attack according to Hobbes

Answer 7

1) Competition - attack for gain
2) Lack of trust - attack for safety
3) Glory - attack for reputation

Question 8

Is there a morality in the state of nature?

Answer 8

• A natural right of liberty exists
• No injustice because right and wrong are obstructed
• Laws of nature

Question 9

Laws of nature

Answer 9

1) Seek peace if you can get it
2) Lay down your natural rights if others do to
3) Perform your covenants

Question 10

Individual vs. collective reality

Answer 10

• Rational for individuals to attack others
• Smart for one, dumb for all
• Rational for the collective to seek peace
• Collectively rational outcomes are unstable
• Individuals have an incentive to defect
• The state provides assurance that the laws of nature will be followed

Question 11

What is a fragile state?

Answer 11

States near collapse or failure