Hobbesian meaning

Hobbesian refers to a viewpoint or characteristic that is pessimistic and emphasizes the need for a strong central authority to maintain order and prevent chaos.


Hobbesian definitions

Word backwards naisebboH
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division Hob-be-sian
Plural The plural of Hobbesian is Hobbesians.
Total letters 9
Vogais (4) o,e,i,a
Consonants (4) h,b,s,n

Hobbesian refers to the ideas and philosophies of Thomas Hobbes, an English philosopher who lived in the 17th century. Hobbes is best known for his work on political philosophy, particularly his book "Leviathan," which discusses the social contract theory and the nature of human beings in the state of nature.

Philosophy of Hobbesian

Hobbesian philosophy is centered around the belief that human beings are inherently selfish and driven by their own self-interest. According to Hobbes, in the state of nature, where there is no government or social order, life is "nasty, brutish, and short," as individuals compete with each other for survival.

Social Contract Theory

One of the key concepts in Hobbesian philosophy is the social contract theory. Hobbes believed that in order to escape the chaos of the state of nature, individuals must surrender some of their freedoms to a central authority in exchange for protection and security. This social contract forms the basis of society and government.

Nature of Human Beings

Hobbesian philosophy also delves into the nature of human beings, arguing that our actions are motivated by a desire to fulfill our own needs and desires. According to Hobbes, without a central authority to keep our selfish tendencies in check, society would descend into chaos and anarchy.

Impact of Hobbesian Philosophy

Hobbesian philosophy has had a lasting impact on political thought and theory. His ideas about the social contract and the nature of human beings have influenced the development of modern political systems and the concept of individual rights.

Overall, the Hobbesian worldview offers a bleak but realistic assessment of human nature and the need for social order and government to maintain peace and stability in society.


Hobbesian Examples

  1. The novel depicted a Hobbesian society where human nature was portrayed as inherently selfish and brutal.
  2. The political leader's Hobbesian approach to governing emphasized the need for a strong central authority to maintain order.
  3. The film highlighted the Hobbesian struggle for power among the characters, leading to a chaotic and violent outcome.
  4. The academic debate centered around the Hobbesian concept of the state of nature and its implications for social contract theory.
  5. The dystopian world described in the book reflected a Hobbesian view of human nature as driven by fear and self-interest.
  6. The philosopher's Hobbesian philosophy argued that individuals are motivated by a desire for self-preservation and should submit to a sovereign authority.
  7. The historical account detailed how Hobbesian principles influenced political thought and shaped the development of modern states.
  8. The novel's protagonist embodied a Hobbesian mentality, viewing others as rivals to be dominated rather than allies to cooperate with.
  9. The Hobbesian theory of international relations posits that states exist in a constant state of competition and conflict.
  10. The Hobbesian pessimism about human nature colored the author's depiction of a post-apocalyptic world devoid of trust and cooperation.


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  • Updated 28/04/2024 - 17:02:14