• Leviathan - Thomas Hobbes

• Author: Thomas Hobbes
• ISBN: 9780857070029

Leviathan, by Thomas Hobbes, is a foundational work of political philosophy that profoundly influenced Western thought. Published in 1651, it argues for a social contract theory where individuals cede some rights to an absolute sovereign for protection and social order. Hobbes portrays the state of nature as a "war of all against all," where life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." He argues that a powerful, centralized authority t?the Leviathan t?is necessary to enforce laws and suppress dissent. The book explores human nature, the foundations of government, and the balance between individual liberty and social stability. It remains a cornerstone of political science, crucial for understanding modern political thought and sparking debate about power, governance, and the role of the state. Hobbes's compelling vision of a world secured by strong rule continues to impact political discourse.