Thomas Hobbes Leviathan Summary - A Student's Reference Guide

LEVIATHAN, or (The Matter, Form, and Power of a Commonwealth, Ecclesiastical, and Civil) compiled by Thomas Hobbes, depicts the theory of power, authority, and politics.

The hypothesis presented bears some similarity with DE CIVE, Hobbes's previous masterpiece produced in 1642. 

Hobbes explains his views by articulating a political philosophy that sees the government as a medium for achieving collective protection and security. 

Per Hobbes's opinions, political authority is justified through a hypothetical social contract between several vesting in an absolute Monarch to look after the well-being and protection of all. 

Hobbes's Leviathan influenced many of his successors like John Locke, Immanuel Kant, and Jean Jacques Rousseau. 

Moreover, through Leviathan, Hobbes also rejects Aristotle's political thesis that the state of humankind is expectedly suited to city life, and only when they become citizens and exercise their civic duties can they realize their true natures.

Hobbes turns Aristotle's views by stating humans are unfitted to political life. They compete with one another, are denigrated, and are easily swayed by ambitious and rhetoric individuals.

Moreover, they often think too highly of themselves than others and are always out to prove a point!

In other words, their passion tends to magnify their self-worth for their interests, particularly those near–term interests. 

Below, we present a lucid Leviathan Summary and what message is derived from it. 

So, if you must write Thomas Hobbes Leviathan Summary for your research paper, continue reading below. 

 

Thomas Hobbes 'LEVIATHAN' Summary

Leviathan Is Segregated Into 4 Sections – Of Man, Of Commonwealth, Of a Christian Commonwealth, and Of the Kingdom of Darkness

While Hobbes shares several crucial aspects through his literary masterpiece, one central idea is explaining why a commonwealth ought to govern humankind and how the government can function to accomplish the needs of its denizens. 

(SECTION I – OF MAN)

The first section of Thomas Hobbes Leviathan begins with a man (as in humankind). Hobbes states the commonwealth is nothing if not the essence of an artificial man. 

He starts the argument at the most elementary level by saying that man's existence in this ever-lasting world is that of a responsive creature driven by his whims to act through continual motions of the world and by sensing objects around them. 

Such continual motions create unending wants and insatiable desires. These desires and wants put them against everyone. Hobbes states, “In this state of Nature, men try to get rid of others through an endless series of war, chaos, and destruction.” 

In such situations, all men are equal. No one is superior to anyone on the battlefield. Anyone can kill anyone! Due to this threat of war, humans constantly live in a state of torment and anxiety. 

Furthermore, man's primary objective is safeguarding himself through all his acceptable limits. But since the evils of war make it daunting and uncertain for humans to protect their own lives, an alternate means should be established. 

The ideal way to ensure protection for all humans is to set an absolute authority having enormous power. The Supreme Monarch or government will protect everyone, provided they all consent to live under its authority. 

Therefore, a commonwealth (as absolute authority) is created to safeguard the lives of everyone who deigned allegiance to it.

(SECTION II – OF COMMONWEALTH)

The second section of Hobbes' Leviathan explains humankind's obligations and allegiance towards the state as its citizens, along with its functions and forms. It also states that citizens must adhere to all norms levied by the state and perform all their civic duties.

Furthermore, Thomas Hobbes considers 'A Monarchy' the ideal government to rule and protect its citizens. He believes that in other governments, there isn't enough sovereign power and authority to safeguard all its citizens from all manner of foreign invasion (and even from themselves).

Thomas Hobbes continues explaining that a citizen's (subject's) responsibilities towards the Sovereign is absolute, and behaving or acting in any other way may lead to hurting themselves. After all, the commonwealth is created for its subject's self-preservation and security.

That said Hobbes also establishes if one feels the Monarchy or governing body is too oppressive and wishes to leave, one can. However, leaving the commonwealth authority means re-entering into a repugnant state of bloodshed, mayhem, chaos, and destruction, aka WAR!

For those individuals, re-entering into a state of war would be the worst feasible decision for them. In a constant state of war, there is no concept of wrong and right, injustice and justice.

The only situation that man finds himself in is to defend and protect their life- even if it means taking someone else's to survive. Eventually, those in a constant state of war lose their humanity and become bloodthirsty savages. 

(SECTION III – OF A CHRISTIAN COMMONWEALTH)

In the third section of Thomas Hobbes Leviathan, the author looks to answer a pivotal question – 'Does being obedient to an absolute Sovereign seem similar to following divine or God's authority?'

Hobbes answer entails that there is no cause for conflict between showing obedience to an absolute Sovereign and abiding by the laws of the All-Mighty! However, Hobbes also explains that men are often inclined to provoke conflicts, even if it is via some false claim that the All-Mighty exists even in the current state of the world. 

Moreover, Hobbes also clarifies that the Kingdom or realm of God is present outside of our natural world, regardless of some groups claiming they have special access to the All-Mighty. 

As God is an unending and all-consuming supernatural entity, and since no human claims to communicate or be a representative of God, the commonwealth members can't subscribe to something as a religious authority! 

Per Hobbes views- the only existing power for humankind is that of the absolute Sovereign, and no other greater authority or force manifests on Earth.

Upon diligent interpretation of Scripture, Thomas Hobbes also states no such soul receives perpetual rewards or punishments in Heaven or hell, respectively. He explains these beliefs are vague and that there aren't any incorporeal spirits wandering and interacting with the folks of the living world. 

Hobbes concludes by establishing that all one must do is, worship the All-Mighty and be obedient towards the civil norm and laws levied in his absence to keep faith in him and maintain peace and order. 

(SECTION IV - OF THE KINGDOM OF DARKNESS)

In the final section of Hobbes Leviathan- he presents a stark portrayal of what human existence will be if not lived per the set principles. He refers to this benighted societal state as 'The Kingdom of Darkness.'

Of course, he doesn't refer to it as 'Hell' but as a life of incessant manipulation by other individuals.

Hobbes, further states that the chief cause of 'The Kingdom of Darkness' or Spiritual Darkness is the beliefs and convictions of others that the Kingdom of God exists in the mortal realm and its historical and philosophical doctrines that spread this untruth among several. 

Furthermore, Hobbes takes a dig at Aristotle's essentialism philosophy for presenting credence to the notion of the presence of veiled matter/immaterial spirits and eternal souls along several Catholicism tenets, particularly the papacy (their additional medium of authority)!

Also Read: Great Expectations Summary

An Account of the Major Themes Explored By Hobbes in Leviathan!

Thomas Hobbes explores various these in his literary masterpiece, Leviathan! 

It is also a very prevalent research paper topic in the academic fraternity. Literature students often get this topic coverage to craft research papers.

If your research paper pertains to the same topic, then fret not. 

Below we present a lucid account of the major themes that Hobbes explores in Leviathan. So, pay close attention!

MAJOR THEMES IN LEVIATHAN

War, Nature & Civil Society

First and foremost, Thomas Hobbes explores the themes of War, Nature, and Civil Society in his literary masterpiece Leviathan.

Hobbes tries to explain through his work that the state of humankind is itself Nature. He further explains how humans behave outside their civilized societies. He goes against Aristotle's belief that humans are social beings susceptible to behaving cordially and working conjointly with others around them. 

Hobbes completely dismisses these notions and states that humans don't behave cordially or socially outside their civilized society. He adds that humans are selfish beings who only care about themselves and are willing to do anything for their self-interests. Moreover, humans have an inert desire to protect themselves, even if it leads to taking another life in exchange.

In addition to the theme of civil society, Hobbes moves his focus toward Nature and War. He states that every human has equal rights to all of Nature. However, their ill desires of greed, hatred, and jealousy lead them into a state of war. Their impulses toward manifesting violence, bloodshed, and mayhem turned Nature into a violent and destructive place.

Through the Leviathan, Hobbes further establishes that War is an inherent facet of Nature. He then says that only by creating a civil society with an absolute sovereign can one avert the dangers of war and accomplish true happiness and safety. 

Fact, Philosophy & Reason

Thomas Hobbes boldly claims that 'Science, Poetry, and Politics' are crucial study disciplines included under the same umbrella known as Philosophy. 

He further states that Philosophy is mainly an opinion and not some fact. Hobbes states that since philosophy is devoid of any sound logic, it can be (totally) preposterous at times. 

The only disciplines that Hobbes considers exceptions are Arithmetic and Geometry, simply as these areas rely on absolute facts and are hence infallible. 

Hobbes compares Aristotle's views that humans can sense objects and their essence through one of their five main senses. Hobbes disagrees with this and says the philosophy presented by

Aristotle is simply an opinion and can be dispelled by taking a more materialistic viewpoint. 

Hobbes states that an object titillates a person's senses only when it comes in direct contact with one of the five human senses. Hobbes explains, regarding motion that an object will continue to move unless someone stops it.

Regarding human philosophy, Hobbes refers to the opinions of other philosophers who claim imaginations occur itself and needs no cause. To this, Hobbes disagrees again and counters by saying thoughts and imagination are part of a person's experiences and memory.

Hobbes explains that one cannot imagine something they haven't sensed in a specific form through sound, touch, smell, sight, or taste!

After establishing his point, Hobbes opines that many previous philosophies are merely deep-rooted opinions without any rational fact to verify them. 

Commonwealths, Monarchs, and Power

Another prevalent theme that Hobbes explores in Leviathan is humankind transitioning from Nature to civil society to create a common, authoritative power. In his opinion, Hobbes states how absolute authority is established and sustained. 

To create an authoritative power, Hobbes states that many people can pledge allegiance to a covenant- where they choose to lose their self-preservation rights and hand them over to a single governing authority. 

It is this unison of individuals in society that creates a commonwealth. 

• Whenever the power of the whole commonwealth is bestowed to a single individual, it is referred to as a Monarch. 
• Alternatively, when the power of the entire commonwealth is given to a handful of individuals, it is known as an Aristocracy. 
• And whenever the authoritative rule is presented to the common folks of society, it gives rise to a Democracy.

Hobbes points out that all these governing bodies comprise the commonwealth's power and function with the same objective; protecting the people and looking after all their desires and happiness. 

Hobbes focuses on each of these commonwealths and then argues about the perfect society, which he addresses as 'Leviathan. 'Finally, he considers Monarchy to be the ideal form of the commonwealth.

He even presents his reasons by stating that in democracy and aristocracy, it's easier for individuals of sovereign control to boost their private wealth/fortune. But they do it at the expense of public prosperity. Contrariwise, in the case of a Monarchy, the private interests often match that of the public.

The king or ruler of the state is only as good as his subjects. And that often empowers rulers to provide the best life for their loyal subjects. 

Lastly, Hobbes states another reason why the Monarch authority is best; people aren't subjected to any form of inconstancy other than Human Nature. 

Religion

The treatment of his theme is quite obvious. Hobbes 'Leviathan title is extracted from the 'Book of Job.' In the book, Leviathan is a biblical sea creature whose context and imagery are often used in Christian metaphors for people's strength and power when united. 

Hobbes admits that his views and treatment of God and the Scripture differ from traditional beliefs. Hence he fears that he may offend several religious readers. 

Nevertheless, Hobbes persists with his theory and states that the Scripture has been considerably misinterpreted. And he presents a fresh take on religion and civilized society. Hobbes remains critical of all forms of religion. Due to his unorthodox views, he was also referred to as an atheist.

Hobbes contends about religion plays a crucial role in the present society. Through his masterpiece 'Leviathan,' he explains that all commonwealth subjects must adhere to the Sovereign political power created for his mortal world.

Hobbes doesn't imply that religion is unnecessary in a civil society. But he certainly states that for all commonwealth subjects, the earthly sovereign political power must precede the All Mighty!

Hobbes also states that exorcism, the divine water, crosses, and other mediums exist to persuade others of Catholic doctrines. He considers the existence of supernatural beings, possession by demonic spirits, and using the power of exorcism as 'Absurd.'

He further considers the words inscribed in divine references like 'Transubstantiation' and 'Trinity' as 'absurd words' having ‘no significant meaning.’ 

He opines that one entity can't be three, while wine and bread cannot turn into blood and flesh. He considers these ridiculous religious beliefs the core reason for unnecessary religious conflicts which plague humankind's imagination and intellect. 

Fear

The theme of fear is also aptly explored throughout 'Leviathan.' Hobbes crafted his masterpiece during the English Civil War. It was a period of disorder, mayhem, and uncertainty! The exiting Monarch, Emperor Charles I, was abolished. The existing English society was reduced to rubble. 

Fear and insecurity had become a part of everyone's lives. It is this fear, chaos, and uncertainty that Hobbes depicts in Leviathan. 

To escape this constant state of fear, Hobbes states that humankind created various commonwealths and civil societies as a form of self-preservation. He also states that fear keeps the commonwealth in check once an absolute authority is created.

Moreover, if a contract (in the form of allegiance or obedience) is to remain intact, those involved must remain true to themselves and fear the consequences of severing the contract.

Hobbes even establishes that it is Fear and uncertainty that helps binds individuals collectively as a community. 

Even when focusing on religious beliefs, Hobbes states that fear and insecurity drive people to take refuge in religious beliefs and create a divine, authoritative figure known as God. 

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25 Recommended Research Topics on Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan'

1. Write a research paper on the Importance of Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes.
2. Craft a descriptive essay focusing on the theme of FEAR in Hobbes Leviathan.
3. Write a research paper on Leviathan by Hobbes.
4. Craft an essay focusing on the significance of the title Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes. 
5. Write a research paper emphasizing the theme of Religion in Hobbes Leviathan.
6. Write an argumentative essay focusing on the theme of Nature & Civil Society.
7. How does Hobbes reject common philosophical beliefs in his masterpiece, Leviathan? 
8. Write a research paper focusing on the crucial scenes in Hobbes Leviathan.
9. Produce a research essay on Hobbes usage of symbolism in Leviathan.
10. Present a critical analysis of Hobbes Leviathan.
11. What Materialistic viewpoints does Hobbes depict in Leviathan?
12. Hobbes states, 'Monarchy is the ideal form of authority?' What does he mean? Write a research paper on this coverage and establish your stance through your arguments.
13. Hobbes believes that social contract leads to true unison/unity– Reflect Hobbes viewpoints. 
14. Explain how the State of Nature can lead to establishing a commonwealth.
15. Emphasize Hobbes views on Motion factors pertaining to commonwealth and humankind.
16. Why does Hobbes oppose Aristotle's philosophy through Leviathan?
17. Explain Hobbes view on the 'Kingdom of Darkness.
18. Why Does Hobbes start his study on the commonwealth through one man's analysis?
19. Write a research paper on Hobbes Moral and Political Philosophy in Leviathan.
20. Write a detailed summary on 'Commonwealths, Monarchs, and Power.'
21. Explain Hobbes views in Leviathan's first Section – 'OF MAN.'
22. Explain Hobbes treatment of Evil ad Good as Aversion and appetite.
23. Why does Hobbes say that Fear is a crucial factor in Human life? Write a research paper using references from Leviathan.
24. Write a research essay on Section III of Leviathan focusing on 'OF A CHRISTIAN COMMONWEALTH.'
25. Compile a research paper on the theme; of War, Nature & Civil Society.

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FAQs Related To Thomas Hobbes Leviathan

Q2. What Are the Main Ideas Behind Thomas Hobbes Leviathan?

Through his masterpiece Leviathan, Thomas Hobbes points out the major political and social order issues. He states how humankind can live in peace and harmony and avoid dangerous conflicts and disputes that lead to disorder and chaos. He even suggests that people should give their obedience to a powerful sovereign who is entitled to make decisions for every group or individual in society. Need help writing down Leviathan Summary? Get in touch immediately!

Q3. What Entail The 3 Central Ides of Thomas Hobbes Leviathan?

According to Thomas Hobbes, humankind's lust for glory and knack for competition and distrust often throws them into a state of conflict and war. Hobbes considers them to be the natural prerequisites for human life. If you want help elaborating on this segment for your research paper, share your assignment details with us immediately.

Q4. What Does Hobbes Indicate as Law of Nature in His Masterpiece Leviathan?

 As per Thomas Hobbes, the Law of Nature in Leviathan denotes a rudimentary rule discovered through strong reason. Such 'Laws of nature' confirms self-preservation in humans and condemn repulsive acts of violence and mayhem as they destroy human existence.If you don't have sufficient time to read Thomas Hobbes Leviathan Book, let us help you finish your research paper without hassle. 

Q5. What Is Hobbes Moral and Political Philosophy in Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes states that for humans to realize their important ends, provoking and waging war is a miserable way to accomplish it.  Of course, there is more to it than this. Contact us today if you need help explaining this coverage comprehensively.

Q6.What Is Hobbes's Outlook To Society as A Concept?

Thomas Hobbes explains that humans rescind their privileges and autonomy in most societies to achieve conjoint freedom. He further opines that the absolute Monarch is the best form of societal authority- one government who controls everyone. It can be society's supreme authority of law, military, state, and religion. Speak to us if you're running out of time to write Leviathan Summary for your research paper. 

Q7.Who Does Hobbes Think of as God in Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes considers God to be the ultimate ruler of all humankind. Hobbes states that God's power and authority are absolute. However, in Leviathan, he explains that humans must obey their earthy Sovereign before God to watch and regulate their existence. 

If you have this coverage as your research paper topic, fret not. Hire our expert and make your writing endeavors hassle-free.

Q8.What Are the Chief Points of Consideration in Hobbes's Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes, through Leviathan, states that complete Sovereign power is ultimately consented to by the government agreeing to the theoretical social bond that everyone will listen and obey the Sovereign for all matters for exchange of peace and harmony. 

Speak to us today if you need sufficient resources to elaborate on Hobbes's views!

Q9. What Includes The Central Themes of Thomas Hobbes Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes explores several themes in Leviathan. Some of the common ones are as follows-

• War
• Nature & Civil Society
• Fear
• Religion
• Commonwealths, Monarchs, and Power
• Fact, Philosophy & Reason

Hire an expert if you need help crafting a research paper on the themes explored by Hobbes in Leviathan.

Q10. For What Purpose Did Thomas Hobbes Write the Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes wrote Leviathan in response to the terror he experienced during the social and political uproar during the English Civil Wars. It remains one of his most acknowledged masterpieces. Contact our team if you need help researching and compiling an extensive research essay on Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes.