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?Leviathan? by Thomas Hobbes, 2006.
A review of Thomas Hobbes innovative "Leviathan".
3,037 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 129.95
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Abstract
In this review of Thomas Hobbes" Leviathan", the author describes the book as innovative and a great philosophical work. He describes how Hobbes argues that mankind, in order to live peacefully, ought to submit to the power of an ultimate, sovereign authority. This power would be unlimited and total, the very definition of a tyrannical state. The author tells us that Hobbes states only a "leviathan" can govern man. The author points out how Hobbes argues that without such extreme control to oversee the lives and interactions of men, every society would slowly disassemble and capitulate into a civil war. In conclusion the author discusses Hobbes argument that government is a necessary component in the building of peace and security within civilized groups. He believes that because man is so violent in his "natural" condition, any sovereign that governs man is seen as an overbearing taskmaster.
From the Paper
"The catch lies in the fact that each individual has his own judgment regarding self-preservation. A man, for his own reasons, may decide that the death of another man is a matter of self-preservation. In practical terms, the right to survive can easily become an unrestricted right to an anti-social behavior. (Hobbes calls it the right "to all things.") He not only assumes that man has the impulse to survive, but that man should, as a matter of "practical rationality," adopt behaviors that are necessary for self-preservation. Hence, if man judges another man to be a threat, and judges that killing that man is the only way to eliminate the threat, then by the logic self-preservation, he has a right to commit murder. The problem here is as Williams points out, that "in the state of nature no one is in a position to successfully define what is good judgment."
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The Fool in "Leviathan", 2002.
Examines the concept of the fool in Thomas Hobbes' work "Leviathan."
2,361 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 104.95
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Abstract
This paper explains how Thomas Hobbes, in "Leviathan", argues that man needs to agree to a social contract overseen by a sovereign power in order to remove himself from a brutal state of nature in which every individual is at the throat of every other individual. Examined are the two basic choices in Hobbes' extremist political philosophy: The war of all against all in the state of nature, or the absolute sovereignty of the Leviathan which all must obey in order to be saved from that war of all against all.
From the Paper
"The very fact that the fool rationally sees and accepts these facts, facts upon which the entire Leviathan rests, shows that some individuals are able to accept the foundations of Hobbes' political philosophy without being coerced to do so out of fear of God or the sovereign political leader. After all, it is supposed to be because of the desire for security, and the fear of what the sovereign might do in response, that the people keep their covenants. But the fool, as Hobbes points out himself, recognizes the need for covenants, although he decides to break them when he deems it in his own individual interests.
If it can be shown that human beings are capable of behaving justly and rightly with one another without the oversight of the sovereign power with whom they have entered into a contract, then Hobbes' whole philosophy as expressed in Leviathan is seriously threatened. "
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Thomas Hobbes's "Leviathan", 2004.
Literary critique of Thomas Hobbes's philosophical work, "Leviathan".
1,337 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper examines chapters 17, 19, and 29 of "Leviathan" in an effort to describe Hobbes's view of human nature, his belief that humans must construct a state in order to protect themselves from outside threats, and his views on democracy, monarchy, and anarchy. The paper also suggests that Hobbes's main purpose in writing "Leviathan" was to lay the foundation for a secular defense based upon a presumption of the basic nature of humanity of the monarchy, which was originally defended as divine institution.
From the Paper
"At the beginning of the first chapter of the second part of his monumental philosophical treatise upon the nature of government, entitled Leviathan, the political philosopher Thomas Hobbes stated that ?the final cause, end, or design of men (who naturally love liberty, and dominion over others) in the introduction of that restraint upon themselves, in which we see them live in Commonwealths, is the foresight of their own preservation, and of a more contented life thereby.? (Chapter 17). In other words, for Hobbes, the self-preservation and the desire to maintain the physical self in a state of pleasure is the root of all humanity?s desire. Hobbes thus posits the essential nature of humanity, and makes an argument about the institutions of government that are best suited for the nature of human beings, given this ?fact? of human nature."
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Hobbes' "Leviathan", 2007.
An analysis of John Hobbes' views on liberty, as expressed in "Leviathan."
1,411 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the concepts of liberty in a society. It defines and describes these concepts according to John Hobbes' views expressed in "Leviathan." The paper analyzes Hobbes' arguments and questions how humans can have total liberty and yet governments can also have authority to define what liberties humans should have. The paper discusses these points.
Table of Contents:
Thesis
Review of Scholarship on Hobbes' Leviathan
Conclusion
From the Paper
"But, in conclusion, if that "artificial" institution uses violence or repression to "keep disorder at bay" then, according to what I have gained from reading Hobbes, individuals like myself will have the natural right to disobey those unfair orders, and create an alternative "artificial institution" to be truly free and express absolute liberty. After all, it was Hobbes who said, "Whensoever a man transferreth his right...it is either in consideration of some right reciprocally transferred to himself, or for some other good he hopeth for thereby." I don't plan to transfer any of my rights to government any time soon, other than to perhaps help the habitat of an endangered species, or to assist another human in dire need of my sacrifice."
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Sovereign Power in "The Leviathan", 2002.
An analysis of liberty under sovereign power in Thomas Hobbe's "The Leviathan".
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 1 source, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper will analyze the concept of Sovereign Power within the structure of Thomas Hobbe's work entitled " The Leviathan". By analyzing the differing conditions for a country's use of sovereignty, we can see the perspective that Hobbes uses when he confronts the subject. This paper will discuss the elements of liberty under a "Sovereign Power" that are included in the text, while giving an overall view of the basis for Hobbe's argument.
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The State of Nature in "Leviathan", 2003.
Examines the ideas of the 17th century political philosopher, Thomas Hobbes, concerning the 'Natural Condition of Mankind' in his work, "Leviathan".
2,757 words (approx. 11.0 pages), 15 sources, MLA, AU$ 119.95
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Abstract
Thomas Hobbes lived in the 17th century and wrote during the time of the English Civil War. His political views most likely were influenced by the war. To understand the complexity of Thomas Hobbes's ideas, as expressed in "Leviathan" about the state of nature, this paper defines Hobbes's concept of a state of nature as being one of absolute liberty where men are viewed as natural persons who have never experienced the implied security of a commonwealth. Furthermore, this paper characterizes the commonwealth as a state of peace, offering its fellowship harmony and fruitful existence. This paper demonstrates the reasons and conditions that might compel a man to exchange his complete liberty for the conceptual security offered by a commonwealth.
From the Paper
"To use Hobbes's phraseology, the state of war exists when knowledge of conflict is present: "so the nature of war consisteth not in actual fighting, but in the known disposition thereto" (Hobbes 1590). True misery is a situation in which men feel they are likely to lose their lives, and therefore are faced with the fear of death. According to Hobbes, individuals value their own survival and well-being much more highly than the survival and well-being of others. Hence, if man believes a certain action best helps to maintain his own security, he is very likely to undertake it, even if it puts at risk the survival or well-being of others. Life becomes a constant battle for survival."
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'The Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes, 2005.
A review of Thomas Hobbes book 'The Leviathan', discussing it as a political philosophy.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 1 source, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the Leviathan is the individual sovereign or ruling body that represents the few in order to develop laws or contracts to control the masses. In this manner, Hobbes creates the mortal god which acts not only as a king, but as a conduit to God in developing and enforcing these laws. As reflected in this paper, only the king knows best how to unite the people under the banner of peace and it is therefore clear that the people have little say in how government is conducted for their interest.
From the Paper
"The aim of this political study will be to examine and define what is normatively called a "Leviathan" within the context of philosophy. Thomas Hobbes uses this term to define how a sovereign government should be enacted for the sole purpose of achieving unity in government. In essence, the Leviathan is a term for governmental practices that give power to a monarchy or oligarchy that is formed and perishable through a "mortal god" within the commonwealth. The Leviathan that Hobbes describes with his book entitled 'The Leviathan' is the formulation of governing principles that oppose republican governments. The basis for Hobbes' choice for a singular monarchy or nobility to govern relies on understanding government that is direct for the common good."
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"Leviathan", 2004.
A review of the Thomas Hobbes' work "Leviathan".
1,610 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the concept of representation in Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan". The paper looks at Hobbes' theories of what would happen if government broke down or there was no government. The paper also focuses on Hobbes' concept of everyday speaking and his use of the word 'person'.
From the Paper
"Thomas Hobbes is famous for saying that in a state of nature everyone would be at war with everyone else and the life of man solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short..."
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"Leviathan" by Thomas Hobbes, 2005.
This paper discusses Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan" and considers its meaning and the effects it had.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes Thomas Hobbes's "Leviathan" and examines its meaning, the influences of other writers on Hobbes and its effect on modern thinking. The paper also contends that Hobbes was a radical philosophical revolutionary.
From the Paper
"Leviathan: My analysis of Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan" began with a study of the authorship of the book. The copyright page listed Thomas Hobbes as the author and gave his birth and death dates as and respectively. The page stated that the book contained selected variants from the Latin edition of Thomas Hobbes. It appears to be an authentic edition of the book with Hobbes as the author. Hobbes's audience for Leviathan is a matter of some controversy."
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"Leviathan", 2007.
An analysis of Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan".
1,992 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 91.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to dissect Hobbes' "Leviathan" and provides the reader with a better understanding of the sovereign's status within the commonwealth, while at the same time touch upon Hobbes' view on human nature and justice.
From the Paper
"Furthermore, all laws, either written or unwritten, derive their authority from the commonwealth (a.k.a. the sovereign), and to disobey the sovereign is not only breaking the original covenant the subject made to grant the sovereign the right to rule, but it's breaking the law (178). To put it most simply, when any subject disobeys the sovereign, the only person the subject hurts is himself. "Take away in any kind of state, the obedience (and consequently the concord of the people,) and they shall not only not flourish, but in short time be dissolved. And they that go about by disobedience, to do no more than reform the commonwealth, shall find they do thereby destroy it" (224-25). "
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Hobbes' "Leviathan", 2002.
This paper discusses Hobbes' view of human nature in the "Leviathan".
1,900 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 1 source, AU$ 102.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Hobbes' argument that man had to be held in check by fear. The author points out that Hobbes contended that humans were aggressive by nature and sought war and conflict at all times. The paper concludes that, because of this reality, Hobbes believed in the necessity of a strong state.
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"Leviathan", 2007.
This paper discusses the philosophy of Thomas Hobbes as recorded in his work "Leviathan".
6,521 words (approx. 26.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 217.95
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Abstract
This paper explores Hobbes' unique view of the world in all its components: society, politics, physics, religion and nature. The paper describes how Hobbes examines human thought, verbal discourse, the ability to reason. The paper also discusses how Hobbes explores human nature from a psychological perspective, ideas about power and fear, the "state of nature" and the "laws of nature". The paper concludes that, overall, Hobbes' resolutions for the problems in his society were weak, but his rhetorical style, unique approach and his unprecedented integration of deductive geometric reasoning to the pursuit of knowledge earned him enough credibility as a philosopher to outweigh his failures.
Outline:
Mechanics of the Mind
Speech and the Foundation of Civil Peace: Unanimous Approval
Reason
Nature of Human Behavior
Power & Fear
State of Nature
Natural Law
From the Paper
"The philosophy of Thomas Hobbes is perhaps the most revolutionary and unique philosophy of the seventeenth century. Hobbes had a unique view of the world in all its components: society, politics, physics, religion, and nature. Unlike his contemporaries, Hobbes was able to fuse these otherwise divergent philosophical sciences into one innovative philosophy. Hobbes is considered one of the greatest philosophers of all times, and rightly so. Many of his political and social theories still apply. While his attempt to explore science essentially failed, his ideas concerning its importance and relevance to other elements of life prevailed. His analysis of Christianity and other religions boldly contested beliefs during his time and influenced the development of religion in the future. Hobbes' most enduring theories concerned problems in political and social order. He explored the easiest path to peaceful coexistence among all humans and how humans could evade civil conflict."
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Thomas Hobbes?s ?Leviathan?, 2004.
This paper discusses that Thomas Hobbes, in his ?Leviathan?, proposes that man, in his natural state, is led to quarrel with other men because of competition, diffidence, and glory.
1,140 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Hobbes views the natural man as hardly different from a beast because he is without law or the refinements of science and art. The author points out that Hobbes?s natural man uses violence in order to compete with and invade other men to gain something. The paper relates, in competing for something gainful, every man is equal to other men, regardless of another?s intellectual or artistic endowments.
From the Paper
"Outside the home, he uses violence in acquiring or competing for his objectives, including food, clothing, space, other men and other possessions, when other men pursue the same objects at the same time. If there is no opposition, the acquisition is easy, complete and permanent until it is contested by the object of acquisition itself or any outsider. Violence is imposed by the natural man because the acquisition is willful and does not require the consent or even the awareness of the object subdued. Treachery is often a method used by the natural man. Violence is manual, physical or with the use of weapons, whichever ensures the gainful acquisition."
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Leviathan and Sovereignty, 2002.
A look at Chapter 18 of Thomas Hobbes? "Leviathan" where he discusses the rights of a sovereign.
1,345 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 65.95
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Abstract
An analysis of writings which took place during political turmoil of the English Civil Wars during the 1640?s. Thomas Hobbes argues for absolute sovereignty, as well as the idea that sovereignty cannot commit injury against the commonwealth and that such absolute sovereignty would not be oppressive.
From the Paper
"Hobbes? argument that sovereignty would not commit an injustice is set up by his argument that everyone (the subjects) is the author of the actions and judgments that the sovereignty makes. In Hobbes? political structure, those who were not originally in favor of the sovereignty that ends up with the ?most votes? per say, still must support the sovereignty. In having the right to vote their opinion, they are basically promising to support the sovereignty no matter what ? even if their sovereignty loses the vote. In relation to our political system, if we vote, we must support the President no matter what ? even if our candidate doesn?t get the Presidency. Therefore, according to Hobbes, ?because every subject is by this institution author of all the actions and the judgments of the sovereign instituted?, it is understood that what he does ?can be no injury to any of his subjects? (232). He continues the argument by stating how men who speak out against the sovereignty?s actions ?complaineth of that whereof he himself is author? (232). He reiterates his initial position by pointing out that it is possible for the sovereignty to ?commit iniquity?, but not any injustice."
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"A Modest Proposal" ( Jonathan Swift ), "Of Cannibals" ( Michel De Montaigne ) and "Leviathan" ( Thomas Hobbes ), 1999.
Critiques these writers' views on the darker side of human nature.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
Jonathan Swift ("A Modest Proposal"), Michel de Montaigne ("Of Cannibals"), and Thomas Hobbes (Leviathan) offer comparable views on the darker side of human nature.
From the Paper
"Jonathan Swift ("A Modest Proposal"), Michel de Montaigne ("Of Cannibals"), and Thomas Hobbes (Leviathan) offer comparable views on the darker side of human nature. Their views reflect patterns of the world in which we live as that world slips into an increasingly self-centered, frightened, materialistic and God-less reality.
Swift satirically presents a terrifying solution to the problem of overpopulation, specifically, from the British perspective, the overpopulation of poor Irish who were seen to be having too many children and who would inevitably require British aid to care for those children. Swift suggests a solution: the children should be eaten:
I have been assured by a very knowing American . . . that a young healthy child well nursed is at a year old ..."
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Moral Rules and Hobbes' s "Leviathan", 2002.
An overview of Hobbes's social philosophy and views of morality on Western society.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, AU$ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper will show how Hobbes's view of the function and use of morality in Western society was a more complex one than a initial reading of his work would suggest. The moral rules which govern the social order re-visioned by Hobbes come in the form of what Hobbes termed "natural laws" which determine all human behaviour. However, any analysis of these first necessitates an analysis of Hobbes's social philosophy in general. .
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