Thomas Hobbes -The absolutist answer- By Matthew Moss and Danielle Ferguson

Who is Thomas Hobbes? Born April 5th 1588 in Wiltshire, England English Philosopher known for his works on political philosophy. Wrote the well-known masterpiece, Leviathan

The State of Nature and Mankind All people are equal, in both the body and the mind. Some may have a stronger body or a stronger mind, but when compared to each other, they are the same. One may have the body strength to do something themselves, while the weak may be able to use machines or get help from friends.

The State of Nature and Mankind If two men that desire the same thing, which they cannot both enjoy, then they become enemies and go to war. 3 main reasons why we go to war Competition Diffidence Glory

The State of Nature and Mankind Competition – The use of violence to make one side the master of the other side’s wives, children, and cattle. One side invades the other for their own gain.

The State of Nature and Mankind Diffidence - Defense For one side’s safety and Defense of their own.

The State of Nature and Mankind Glory – Showing off For Trifles, as a word, smile, or other types of undervalue either of the other men or of their kindred. To show all the weaker persons or countries that they are the strongest.

The State of Nature and Mankind Hobbes believes that in this state of nature, there are no laws or differences between right or wrong. Life is “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short” Only passions that keep man at peace are : The fear of death Fear of the Losing excellent living

The Right of Nature The Liberty that each man has in order to use his own power to ensure the preservation of himself. I.E. Bob and Bill There will be no security for another man. Leads to 3 laws of nature

Laws of Nature 1st Law – “That every man ought to endeavor peace, as far as he has hope of obtaining it, and when he cannot obtain it, that he may seek, and use, all helps and advantages of war.” 2nd Law – Treat others as you would want to be treated yourself. 3rd Law – All covenants must be performed.

Laws of Nature Accomplishes peace by implementing justice, gratitude, modesty, equality, and mercy. Hobbes called these laws: moral virtues.

Government From the Laws of Nature, Hobbes believed he developed a form of government which could be used to lead a nation to a time of peace. There is a need for coercive power to put fear into the people of a society to make them keep their covenants and obey the laws of the society. “Covenants without the sword are but words”

Government Those who could not follow these laws would be severely punished. Must be able to defend it’s people from invasion and from injuring one another, secure their industries, use the fruits of the earth without being in constant competition.

Government Led by a person who must listen and obey the voice of the public. This person must promise to provide defense from enemies, secure all the commodities the commonwealth desires, and provide enough food and needs to the commonwealth.

Summary People are all egoist who always act in their own self interest, to obtain gratification, and avoid harm. Life is “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short” It is in everyone’s best interest to make a contract to keep a minimum of mortality of respecting human life, keeping covenants, and obeying the societies laws.