Leviathan By: Thomas Hobbes

Author: George H. Smith

This presentation explores the social and political turmoil during which Leviathan was written, including an examination of the radical political philosophies spawned by opposition to the Stuart monarchy in England. It explains the materialistic foundation of Hobbes’ philosophy and how this influenced his theory of man, society, and government.

Special attention is paid to Hobbes’ theory of the “state of nature”, the social contract, and the governmental sovereignty. The right of resistance against unjust laws and the right to liberty of conscience also are discussed.