Discover books similar to "Leviathan"

Thomas Hobbes

Leviathan

Title: Leviathan Author: Thomas Hobbes Published: 1651 Publisher: Andrew Crooke, London Thomas Hobbes’ seminal work, “Leviathan,” is a cornerstone of Western political philosophy, published in 1651 during the tumultuous era of the English Civil War. The book offers a profound examination of society, human nature, and the social contract, providing a blueprint for a stable political order. Hobbes posits that in the state of nature, life is “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,” driven by an inherent human desire for power and survival. To escape this chaos, individuals form a social contract, ceding their natural rights to a sovereign, who maintains order and security. This all-powerful sovereign, or Leviathan, is the creation of the people and exists to ensure peace and stability. The book is divided into three parts: Of Man, Of Commonwealth, and Of a Christian Commonwealth. In the first part, Hobbes explores human nature, reason, and passions. The second part delves into the formation of the commonwealth, the role of the sovereign, and the importance of political obedience. The third part reconciles the concepts of religion and state, addressing the relationship between the Church and the sovereign. “Leviathan” is a groundbreaking work that has influenced modern political theory, international relations, and the understanding of human nature. Its exploration of the social contract, the role of the state, and the balance between individual rights and collective security remains relevant today. Despite its age, Hobbes’ magnum opus remains a vital resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of political power and human nature. In conclusion, “Leviathan” is a thought-provoking and enduring examination of the social contract, human nature, and the role of the state. Its insights into the necessity of a strong central authority for maintaining order and security continue to resonate in contemporary political discourse...