Book Review: Leviathan

Book Title: Leviathan

Author: Thomas Hobbes

Publisher: Penguin Classics

Publication Date: 1651 (revised edition 1668)

      Introduction:

Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan is a groundbreaking work in political philosophy, providing an in-depth look at the state and its role in society. Published in 1651, this book has long been a pillar of modern political thought, sparking extensive discussion and debate over the years. Hobbes posits that humans are naturally prone to self-interest and aggression, asserting that the only way to avert the ensuing chaos from these tendencies is to create a robust, centralized government. His perspectives on the state and its interaction with individual freedom and authority have greatly influenced political philosophy and shaped the thoughts of countless thinkers since its release. Even today, Leviathan prompts controversy; some critics argue that Hobbes’ focus on a powerful central government jeopardizes personal freedoms and endorses authoritarianism, while others believe his concept offer essential insights into the state's function in society. In this review, I will critically assess both the strengths and weaknesses of Hobbes’ arguments and their relevance to today’s political discussions. I’ll also delve into the historical and intellectual backdrop of Leviathan and evaluate its enduring importance for political theory and practice. My aim is to provide a thoughtful and thorough critique of this crucial and influential piece.

 

About the author:

Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) was an English philosopher and political theorist, widely recognized for his insights into political philosophy, particularly through his masterwork, Leviathan (1651). He grappled with the issue of societal order and what constitutes political authority, believing that without a strong central government, human life would spiral into war and chaos. The political and religious turmoil of his era—especially the English Civil War, along with the debates surrounding religious authority and tolerance—influenced his thinking significantly. Moreover, he was affected by the scientific revolution and aimed to apply natural science methods to the exploration of politics and society. Hobbes’ central idea revolves around the social contract, a concept he used to describe the relationship between individuals and the state. He argued that people willingly surrender some freedoms in exchange for the state's protection and security, which, in turn, possesses the authority to uphold laws and ensure order. To this day, Hobbes is considered a pivotal figure in political thought, with his ideas continuing to resonate among scholars and policymakers around the globe.

Summary of the argument:

Hobbes begins his book by examining human nature and the idea of the state of nature. He asserts that individuals are inherently self-interested and, without government, would find themselves in a state of perpetual war, where existence is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." In this natural state, everyone has the right to do whatever is necessary for self-defense, leading to unceasing conflict and a lack of justice or morality—essentially a "law of the jungle." To escape this chaotic existence, Hobbes contends that individuals must unite and form a social contract, agreeing to relinquish some of their rights in favor of a sovereign authority that provides protection and stability. This sovereign needs absolute authority, as any constraints on its power could unravel the social contract and push humanity back into the state of nature. Additionally, Hobbes argues that religion must reinforce the sovereign's power because it shapes beliefs and behaviors in ways that no secular authority can replicate. However, the sovereign must maintain total control over religious institutions to prevent challenges to its power.

Summary of the contents:

The main body of Leviathan is divided into four sections, where Hobbes explores human nature, the state of nature, the origins of society and government, and sovereign authority's role. He asserts that the social contract is vital for individuals to surrender some freedom for the protection and stability the state provides.

 

Part I: Of Man

The first section of Leviathan focuses on Hobbes’ perspective on human nature. He argues that people are naturally inclined toward self-interest and aggression, leading to a perpetual state of war. According to Hobbes, the only way to avert this war is by creating a powerful, centralized government capable of enforcing law and order. Critics have debated his view of human nature, with some believing it paints a narrow, pessimistic picture, while others argue it realistically captures human behavior. Some also criticize him for underestimating the role of social and cultural factors in shaping human conduct.

 

Part II: Of Commonwealth

In the second section, Hobbes addresses the state's function in society. He believes that to escape the chaotic state of nature, individuals must enter into a social contract with a sovereign authority. This authority, referred to as the Leviathan, is granted total power to enforce laws and maintain order. His social contract theory has had a significant influence on political philosophy, justifying various political systems, from absolute monarchies to contemporary democracies. Critics point out that his insistence on absolute power threatens individual freedoms and fosters authoritarianism, while others argue that his theories are crucial for understanding the state's nature and societal role.

 

Part III: Of a Christian Commonwealth

The third section examines the relationship between religion and politics. Hobbes posits that the state should have control over religious beliefs and practices to maintain social order, asserting that the church must be subordinate to the state and that the sovereign should interpret scripture and define religious doctrine. His views on the church-state relationship provoke debate, with critics arguing that they threaten religious freedom, while supporters say they protect against the perils of religious fanaticism.

 

Part IV: Of the Kingdom of Darkness

The final section discusses the state's relationships with other powers, both domestic and foreign. Hobbes maintains that the state has the right to wage war to defend its interests and that enduring peace can only be established through a balance of power among nations.

Strengths:

·      Originality: Leviathan presents a fresh perspective on political philosophy, with Hobbes' groundbreaking ideas still resonating today.  

·      Clarity of Argument: Hobbes crafts a logically sound argument for a strong central government, starting with an analysis of human nature and progressing to the government's role.  

·      Influence: The work has profoundly shaped political philosophy, with ongoing debates amongst scholars attesting to its relevance.  

·      Accessibility: Though complex Leviathan is articulated in clear language, making it relatively approachable.

 

Weaknesses:

·      Limited View of Human Nature: Hobbes’ focus on self-interest and competition overlooks the role of altruism and cooperation in human behavior.  

·      Overemphasis on Sovereign Power: His insistence on an all-powerful sovereign can be seen as undemocratic, leaving little space for individual freedoms or civil liberties.  

·      Restricted Role of Government: Hobbes perceives government merely as a mechanism for maintaining order and protecting property, ignoring its broader functions in promoting social welfare and safeguarding individual rights.  

·      Lack of Empirical Evidence: Many of his claims are theoretical with minimal empirical backing, prompting skepticism regarding their validity.

 

Hobbes' Leviathan: Context, Significance, and Critiques in Political Theory

Leviathan was penned during a tumultuous period marked by political instability and intellectual blossoming in England. The mid-17th century was rife with events like the English Civil War, the execution of King Charles I, and Oliver Cromwell's Commonwealth. This transformative time also birthed novel ideas across science, philosophy, and politics. In this climate, Hobbes’ Leviathan sought to articulate a comprehensive theory of political authority, arguing that humans exist in a natural state of war, necessitating a powerful centralized government to prevent chaos and violence—a concept reflective of the tumultuous backdrop of the English Civil War. Hobbes' assertion that a strong, centralized government is essential for maintaining social order marked a significant shift from the dominant political ideas of his era. The backdrop against which Hobbes wrote "Leviathan" is equally important. He was shaped by the innovative thought emerging from the scientific revolution, which prioritized reason and observation as tools for comprehending the world. Hobbes carried this mindset into his political theories, claiming that authority should rest on rational thinking and an acknowledgment of human self-interest. This was a break from the conventional political theories of the time, which typically relied on traditional religious or moral frameworks.

The impact of Leviathan on political theory and its applications is monumental. Hobbes' concept of the social contract has had a lasting influence on modern political thought, playing a key role in the evolution of democratic systems and constitutional governance. His focus on the rule of law and the acknowledgment of human self-interest still resonates today. At the same time, criticisms persist regarding the authoritarian undertones of Hobbes' theory and his somewhat narrow view of democracy. While advocating for a robust centralized government may seem necessary for societal order, it could also compromise individual freedoms and active democratic engagement. Importantly,  Leviathan  emerged during a time of considerable political turbulence and intellectual growth in England. Hobbes’ views on the need for strong government and his scientific approach to political theory stood out against the prevailing thoughts of his day. While the relevance of Leviathan in political theory and practice is clear, its authoritarian shades and limited democratic perspective still invite critique.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hobbes' Leviathan holds a pivotal place in political philosophy, offering a compelling and critical examination of human nature, society, and the state's role in preserving order and authority. Although his social contract theory spurs lively debate, Hobbes' organized and rational approach to understanding governmental roles remains significant in contemporary political discourse. He effectively argues for the necessity of individuals relinquishing certain rights to the state to avert chaos and ensure order. However, his argument does fall short in detailing how the Leviathan itself should be held in check to avoid the abuse of power. Regardless of these shortcomings, Leviathan is a crucial text for anyone curious about political philosophy and the function of government in society. It continues to attract close examination and debate, marking its lasting contribution to political theory. Hobbes' work is truly essential reading for those wanting to grasp the underpinnings of modern political thought.