How to Read Thomas Hobbes

Thomas Hobbes was an English philosopher best known for his work in political and social philosophy. His ideas, expressed in his masterpiece “Leviathan,” revolve around social contract theory and the necessity of a strong central authority. He viewed the natural state of mankind as “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,” and believed that a powerful government was necessary to maintain order and prevent chaos. Hobbes’s views were highly influential and form the basis for much of Western political philosophy.

1. “Leviathan” (1651)

In a Nutshell: “Leviathan” is a foundational text in Western political philosophy. Hobbes asserts that individuals, to escape the violent state of nature, voluntarily give up their rights to a sovereign, who maintains order and ensures their survival.

Review: Dense but worthwhile, “Leviathan” is a philosophical and political classic. Its discussion on the social contract and human nature is crucial for anyone interested in political thought.

Reason to Read: Hobbes’s argument that in a ‘state of nature’ human life would be ‘solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short’ has drawn attention ever since. His work is essential for understanding the foundation of modern political structures.

Key Quotes:

• “The condition of man… is a condition of war of everyone against everyone.”
• “No arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear, and danger of violent death: and the life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short.”

2. “De Cive” (1642)

In a Nutshell: “De Cive” (Latin for “On the Citizen”) is one of Hobbes’s major works. It discusses the foundations of civil society and legitimate government, presenting the need for political order.

Review: While not as well-known as “Leviathan,” “De Cive” presents a clear and organized discussion of Hobbes’s political ideas, making it an accessible introduction to his political philosophy.

Reason to Read: The book is a brilliant exploration of the intersection of individual desires and collective order. It elucidates Hobbes’s ideas of sovereignty and social contract in a clear manner.

Key Quotes:

• “Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues.”
• “And Covenants, without the Sword, are but Words, and of no strength to secure a man at all.”

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