Leviathan

Definition

Leviathan refers to a metaphorical sea monster that symbolizes a powerful state or sovereign authority. This concept is famously articulated by Thomas Hobbes in his 1651 work titled 'Leviathan,' where he argues for the necessity of a strong centralized authority to avoid chaos and civil war, reflecting the historical context of political instability during the English Civil War.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hobbes wrote 'Leviathan' during a time of great political upheaval in England, specifically amid the English Civil War, which deeply influenced his thoughts on governance and authority.
2. In 'Leviathan,' Hobbes describes life without government as 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,' emphasizing his belief in the need for strong governance to maintain social order.
3. The Leviathan is depicted as a giant figure made up of individuals who collectively form the state, illustrating Hobbes' view that the authority of the sovereign derives from the consent of the governed.
4. Hobbes’ ideas in 'Leviathan' marked a significant shift in political philosophy, laying the groundwork for modern theories of governance and the social contract.
5. The book's title comes from a biblical reference to Leviathan as a formidable creature, symbolizing the power and necessity of an all-encompassing authority to ensure peace and security.

Review Questions

• How does Hobbes' concept of Leviathan reflect his views on human nature and the necessity of government?
  • Hobbes' concept of Leviathan illustrates his pessimistic view of human nature, which he believed was inherently self-interested and prone to conflict. He argued that without a powerful governing body, individuals would act upon their impulses, leading to a chaotic 'state of nature.' Thus, he asserted that a strong central authority was essential to maintain peace and prevent violence among people.
• Discuss the significance of the social contract in Hobbes' argument for a powerful sovereign as depicted in Leviathan.
  • The social contract is central to Hobbes' argument in Leviathan, as it describes the agreement individuals make to relinquish certain freedoms in exchange for security provided by a powerful sovereign. This contract legitimizes the authority of the Leviathan by positing that its power arises from the consent of those it governs. Hobbes contends that this sacrifice is necessary to escape the chaos of the state of nature and achieve lasting peace.
• Evaluate how Hobbes' depiction of sovereignty in Leviathan has influenced contemporary political thought regarding authority and governance.
  • Hobbes' depiction of sovereignty as an absolute power in Leviathan has profoundly influenced contemporary political thought by establishing foundational ideas about authority and governance. His arguments for strong central authority resonate in modern discussions about state power versus individual rights, particularly concerning how much control governments should exert to ensure societal order. Furthermore, his ideas prompt ongoing debates about the balance between security and liberty, reflecting their relevance even today in democratic societies grappling with issues of governance.

Related terms

Social Contract: A theory that suggests individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to surrender some freedoms and submit to the authority of a ruler or government in exchange for protection of their remaining rights.

State of Nature: A philosophical concept that describes the hypothetical condition of humanity before the establishment of organized societies and governments, often characterized by chaos and conflict.

Sovereignty: The authority of a state to govern itself or another state; a fundamental principle in political philosophy that emphasizes absolute power and independence in governance.