Thomas Hobbes Flashcards
dates
1588-1679
what is Hobbes known for
conservative philosopher
linked to the principle of gov by consent
most famous work
Leviathan 1651
view on human nature
sceptical
needy+vunerable so will commit destructive acts
view of human nature before the state
no co-operation between individuals
no natural rights
place with scarce resources+ruthless self interest
how did Hobbes describe this state of nature before the state
‘nasty,brutish and short’
restless desire for goods, distrust+fear of death
why did Hobbes think human nature was in ‘natural chaos’ before the state
no formal authority to enforce code of right/wrong
each person have their own view of right or wrong=conflict
what did hobbes think humans would realise in their state of nature
they needed a contract
under this they would give to a sovereign the right to make laws
give a society=security+progress could happen
what type of state did Hobbes suggest and why
autocratic
if power was dispersed conflicts within state of nature would be replicated
ultimately what did hobbes argue was the principle reason for the creation of the state
order+security
without there’d be no civil society
human nature summary
selfish
driven by desire for supremacy and security
the state summary
arises contractually from those who seek order
must be autocratic to serve purpose
society summary
no society until state brings order + authority
the economy summary
impossible without a state
