Thomas Hobbes (1588–1679), an English philosopher, lived during the tumultuous times of the English Civil War, which profoundly influenced his thinking about Forms of government and Society or community He studied at Oxford and traveled extensively in Europe, engaging with intellectual luminaries of the era, which informed his materialist and mechanistic views. Hobbes published "Leviathan" in 1651, a period marked by political chaos and the emergence of modern State theories. The text ignited controversy for its staunch defense of Absolute sovereignty and materialist philosophy, drawing both fierce criticism and support. Over time, "Leviathan" became foundational in Political Philosophy, impacting Liberalism, and influencing thinkers like John Locke Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Its ideas resonate in contemporary discussions on , The Social Contract, and governance.
Guiding Question
What must we sacrifice for peace?