Introduction to Hobbes' Leviathan (1651)
Leviathan is a seminal work by Thomas Hobbes, first published in 1651. Its full title, ‘Leviathan, or the Matter, Forme and Power of a Commonwealth Ecclesiastical and Civil,’ reflects its focus on political philosophy and the nature of state power. The term 'Leviathan' is drawn from the biblical creature mentioned in the Book of Job, symbolizing a powerful, untamable force beyond human control. Hobbes uses this metaphor to represent the state, likening its authority to a gigantic artificial being that governs society.
The Purpose of Leviathan
Hobbes wrote Leviathan during a period of intense political turmoil in England, marked by civil war and uncertainty over sovereignty. Hobbes argued that the root cause of the chaos was the ambiguity surrounding the source of political power and authority. Through a thorough analysis of human nature, Hobbes set out to explain the necessity of a strong, centralized authority—what he called 'absolute sovereignty'—as the means to ensure peace and security.
Structure of Leviathan
Leviathan is divided into four parts, each addressing different aspects of the state and society:
1. The Nature of Man
The first part examines human nature, which Hobbes describes as inherently self-interested and driven by a desire for self-preservation. He argues that without authority, humans would exist in a constant state of conflict, or the 'state of nature,' where life would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.'2. The Creation of the Commonwealth
In the second part, Hobbes explores the formation of the state, which he describes as an 'artificial man.' The state is created through a social contract in which individuals agree to surrender their natural freedoms to a sovereign authority in exchange for protection and order. The sovereign, whether a monarch or assembly, holds absolute power to ensure peace.3. The Christian Commonwealth
The third section delves into the relationship between religion and politics. Hobbes argues that religious belief is a private matter and should not interfere with state authority. He rejects the notion that the Church, particularly the Roman Catholic Church, holds temporal power over earthly governments, criticizing the Church's interpretation of the Bible that claims such dominance.4. The Kingdom of Darkness
In the final section, Hobbes critiques what he sees as the corruption of religious and philosophical thought, referring to it as the 'Kingdom of Darkness.' He emphasizes the need for the state to be free from religious control and advocates for the separation of church and state to ensure the sovereign's supremacy.Key Themes
At the heart of Leviathan is Hobbes’ theory of sovereignty. He insists that only an absolute sovereign can prevent the descent into chaos that arises from human nature. Another major theme is the clear division between church and state. Hobbes fiercely criticizes the authority claimed by the Church over temporal matters, advocating for a secular state that maintains control over religious institutions.
Conclusion
Leviathan remains a cornerstone of Western political thought, laying the groundwork for modern ideas about governance, sovereignty, and the relationship between the state and religion. By framing the state as a 'Leviathan,' Hobbes conveyed the immense power and responsibility required to maintain order and peace in society.
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