Leviathan (Unabridged)
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5.0 • 4 Ratings
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- $25.99
Publisher Description
Published in 1651, Leviathan is considered to be one of the most important works of political philosophy and a major contribution to the modern idea of central government. In the mid-17th century, England was going through a turbulent time of change and unrest, which likely shaped Hobbes' ideas on strong government.
Thomas Hobbes established the social contract theory. He believed that self-government did not create the ideal state due to the human tendency to be self-serving, something he believed would eventually lead to chaos. According to Hobbes' ideas, an ideal society includes a strong government that can promote order and therefore peace.
Although best known as an English political philosopher, Thomas Hobbes contributed to a variety of field, including physics, ethics, history, and theology. In spite of his belief in society's need of sovereignty, Hobbes is also known for some of his more liberal ideas, such as the right of the individual and the equality of all men.
Customer Reviews
Challenging book!
Every word is crucial and full attention is needed to comprehend this particular book. Very well written and the narrator was enjoyable in his tone as well. Helpful insight after just finishing John Locke on the opposing end. The book seems to be split into 2 parts - first is more political commentary and theory and second is more biblical-based building upon the political theory in part one.
Hobbes
This glimpse of the past shows us how the issues of today are the same issues as far back as the 1600’s. There may be some superficial differences but don’t let these distract you from Hobbes’s awesome grasp of these elusive universal insights.