Thomas Hobbes Flashcards
What is the major work written by Thomas Hobbes which we studied?
Leviathan
What is human nature about according to Hobbes?
search for more and more power
How do humans compare to one another?
Equal in body and mind
Why is Hobbes’ state of nature a state of war?
domininion over others is allowed ! (no laws)
other is always a potential aggressor; violence is justified
No such thing as « property », only « possession ».
Must use violence to get what we want and to defend ourselves
What quote characterizes the state of nature according to Hobbes?
“life in the state of nature is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short”
Why do we want to leave the state of nature according to Hobbes?
FEAR OF A VIOLENT DEATH
my power is constantly under threat = constant insecurity
like having no power at all
We realize it is better to have peace than war
Right of Nature
absolute liberty to use own power for the preservation of his power
Law of Nature
rule which forbids a man to do what is destructive to his life, power
First Law of Nature
“we must seek peace, but if we can’t have it, we must still defend ourselves.”
Social Contract
Contract: I give up my « natural right » to do do what I want to the commonwealth and agree to follow laws
In exchange, the commonwealth keeps peace and security
But punishes me if I break the rules
Contract
The mutual transferring of right
What is the job of the state according to Hobbes?
Security
Fifth Law of Nature
Forbids depriving others of their necessities for the sake of providing ourselves with superfluous goods
