Thomas Hobbes 1588-1679

Question 1

book

Answer 1

Leviathan 1651

Question 2

Hobbes on human nature

Answer 2

In his book, he took a profoundly sceptical view of human nature, arguing it was needy and vulnerable and therefore committed destructible acts. Human nature was shaped by a relentless desire for the possession of goods

Question 3

Hobbes on the state of nauture

Answer 3

prior to the invention of the state there was no competition or voluntary arrangements between individuals. Therefore, “natural rights” didn’t exist. In Hobbes words, the state of nature was “solitary, poor, hasty, brutish and short”.

Question 4

what was the issue with an absence of authority?

Answer 4

“natural chaos” stemmed from the absence of any formal authority, which could enforce codes of rights and wrong. In its absence, mankind was left to form its own version/

Question 5

why did Hobbes not consider human nature “wholly irrational” ?

Answer 5

He thought mankind would eventually realise the state of nature was bad, and agree to a “contract”

Question 6

under this “contract”, what would individuals render too?

Answer 6

individuals would render to a sovereign the right to make laws. This would eventually lead to SoC where individuals could enjoy security and progress

Question 7

what would the state have to be and why?

Answer 7

in order for the state to accomplish its side of the bargain it would have to be autocratic, if powers were dispersed the conflicts within the state of nature would soon be replicated

Question 8

what was the reason for the creation of the state?

Answer 8

Principle reason for the state was the creation of order and security without such there would be no civil society.