Hobbes Leviathan
Hobbes’ Leviathan and Locke’s Second Treatise of Government comprise critical works in the lexicon of political science theory. Both works expound on the origins and purpose of civil society and government. Hobbes’ and Locke’s writings center on the definition of the “state of nature” and the best means by which a society develops a systemic format from this beginning. The authors hold opposing views as to how man fits into the state of nature and the means by which a government should be formed and what type of government constitutes the best. This difference arises from different conceptions about human nature and “the state of nature”, a condition in which the human race finds ...
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the state of nature is one of “peace, goodwill, mutual assistance and preservation”. Transgressions against the law of nature, or reason which “teaches mankind that all being equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty and possessions,” are but few. The state of nature, according to Locke’s Treatise, consists of the society of man, distinct from political society, live together without any superior authority to restrict and judge their actions. It is when man begins to acquire property that the state of nature becomes somewhat less peaceful.
At an undetermined point in the history of man, a people, while still in the state of nature, allowed one person to become their leader and judge over controversies. This was first the patriarch of a family, then the wisest or fittest militarily of a tribe. These leaders ruled by wisdom and discretion, though neither they nor their followers were subject to any ratified laws. These rulers ...
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between them arose. Locke commented on the problems inherent in accumulation of property in the state of nature;
…and though in the state of nature he hath such a right, yet the enjoyment
of it is very uncertain, and constantly exposed to the invasion of others: for
all being king as much as he, every man his equal and the greater part no
strict observers of equity and justice, the enjoyment of the property he has
in this state is very unsafe, very insecure.
The acquisition of property greatly increased the insecurity of people in nature; it was the need to protect property that essentially necessitated the establishment of government. Fear was coupled with the need for ...
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"Hobbes Leviathan." Essayworld.com. June 21, 2006. Accessed December 23, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Hobbes-Leviathan/47907.
"Hobbes Leviathan." Essayworld.com. June 21, 2006. Accessed December 23, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Hobbes-Leviathan/47907.
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