Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679)

Question 1

Individual and Society

Answer 1

Hobbes’ main concern was “why do we need society?”
Hobbes described the state as an organism similar to a person.
Social Contract is to set aside rights as long as others do also for individuals to stay in a society.
We only cooperate in a society because fear of death and a desire for adequate living – that’s the only reason we set aside our rights.

Question 1

Social Change

Answer 1

Hobbes believed that social order was made by human beings therefore human beings can change it, even under the most authoritarian rule.
Social order emerges through an authoritarian leader, “Leviathan” that is established through the social contract.

Question 2

Human Nature

Answer 2

Hobbes held a pessimistic view of human nature:
“…and the life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.”
Hobbes believed that man is self-serving and only a social contract creates social order.
Hobbes believed that our human choices are fueled by two forces: desires and aversions (dislike). Altruism does not exist.