A True Classic for All Lovers of Political Philosophy!'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes, first published in 1651, is one of the most influential works of political philosophy. Written during the turmoil of the English Civil War, the book argues for the necessity of a strong, centralized government to maintain order and prevent societal chaos.Hobbes presents a vision of human nature as inherently selfish and driven by the desire for power and survival. He famously describes life in a state of nature—without government—as 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.' To escape this anarchic condition, individuals enter into a social contract, surrendering some of their freedoms to an absolute sovereign, or 'Leviathan', in exchange for security and stability. This ruler, whether a monarchy or an assembly, must have absolute power to prevent disorder.The book is divided into four parts, covering human nature, the structure of society, religion, and the role of the state. Hobbes' ideas laid the foundation for modern political theory, influencing later thinkers like Locke and Rousseau. Though often criticized for advocating authoritarianism, 'Leviathan' remains a seminal text in discussions on government, law, and the balance between authority and individual rights.
