Keyword Guide · book-summary
This Hobbes’ Leviathan summary explains the core ideas of Thomas Hobbes’ political philosophy in clear terms. It’s designed to help high school and college students prepare for discussions, quizzes, and analytical essays.
Thomas Hobbes wrote Leviathan in the 17th century during a time of political instability in England. His goal was to explain why strong government is necessary to prevent chaos. The book combines philosophy, psychology, and political theory to argue for order over disorder.
Hobbes describes humans as naturally self-interested and driven by fear and desire. Without government, people live in what he calls a “state of nature,” where life is insecure and violent. In this condition, there are no laws, justice systems, or shared authority to keep peace.
To escape constant conflict, individuals agree to give up some freedom and form a social contract. They grant power to a sovereign, an authority responsible for making laws and enforcing order. Hobbes argues that this power must be strong and undivided to be effective.
Hobbes believes that a powerful ruler or governing body is preferable to chaos and civil war. While the sovereign’s power is broad, its purpose is stability and protection. For Hobbes, peace and security matter more than individual political freedom.
Leviathan explains why humans create governments and why Hobbes believes strong authority is necessary to maintain peace and order.
He argues that without government, people would live in constant conflict due to fear, competition, and lack of trust.
Students study it to understand political theory, arguments about power, and ideas that influenced modern views of government.
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