Leviathan: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of Leviathan, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Without government, life is war
Hobbes argues that without a common power to keep order, people would live in a state of nature where everyone competes for safety and resources.
In such a condition, he says, life would be insecure, fearful and short.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Equality breeds conflict
Hobbes argues that people are roughly equal in strength and cunning, so anyone could threaten anyone else.
This equality, combined with competition and fear, leads to constant conflict. No one can feel safe.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Reason points to peace
Hobbes describes laws of nature discovered by reason, such as seeking peace and keeping agreements.
Following them is in everyone's interest, but only if others do too. Peace needs trust.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
People agree to create a ruler
To escape the state of nature, Hobbes argues, people agree to give up some freedoms to a sovereign who will keep peace.
This agreement, a social contract, creates the commonwealth.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
The sovereign must be powerful
Hobbes argues that the sovereign must have great power to enforce laws and protect people.
Divided or weak authority, he believes, leads back to chaos and civil war. Order comes first.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
The state is an artificial person
Hobbes describes the commonwealth as a great artificial person, the Leviathan, made up of all its citizens.
The famous image on the book's cover shows a giant made of many people.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Security is the purpose of government
Hobbes argues that the main purpose of government is to provide security.
People obey the sovereign because it protects them. Obedience is the price people pay for safety and peace.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Everything is matter in motion
Hobbes held a materialist view, seeing humans and the world as matter in motion.
He explained thoughts and feelings as physical processes. This view was radical in his time and drew sharp criticism from churchmen.
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