The Leviathan (1651) Flashcards
What is Leviathan (1651)?
A political philosophy book by Thomas Hobbes advocating for a strong, centralized authority to maintain order.
Why did Hobbes write Leviathan?
He wrote it during the English Civil War, believing a stable government was essential for peace and prosperity.
What is Hobbes’s concept of the social contract?
Individuals give up some freedoms and submit to a sovereign in exchange for security and order.
How does Hobbes describe the state of nature?
A condition without government where life is “nasty, brutish, and short.”
What motivates human beings, according to Hobbes?
Fear of death, desire for security, and the pursuit of personal gain.
How does Hobbes define good and bad?
Good is what benefits individuals, and bad is what harms them; morality is dictated by the sovereign.
Why does Hobbes advocate for a strong government?
Without central authority, people would be in constant conflict; a strong government ensures order.
What form of government does Hobbes prefer?
An absolute monarchy, as it best enforces laws and prevents societal collapse.
How does Hobbes view freedom and individual rights?
Absolute freedom leads to anarchy; people must surrender some rights for security.
What is the lasting impact of Leviathan?
It continues to influence political thought on government authority and social order.
