What Is The Book Leviathan About

Leviathan is a seminal work in political philosophy written by Thomas Hobbes, first published in 1651. This influential book explores the nature of human beings, the origins of society, and the foundations of political authority. It remains a cornerstone of modern political thought, often studied for its insights into the social contract, sovereignty, and human nature. To understand what Leviathan is about, it is essential to examine its central themes, structure, and the ideas Hobbes presents about how society functions and the necessity of a strong ruler.

Overview of Leviathan

Historical Context

Published during a tumultuous period in English history — amidst the English Civil War — Leviathan reflects Hobbes’ response to the chaos and violence that characterized that era. Hobbes sought to establish a rational foundation for political authority that could prevent society from descending into disorder and violence. His work was a direct challenge to the divine right of kings and emphasized the importance of a sovereign power to maintain peace and order.

Purpose and Significance

The primary goal of Leviathan was to articulate a theory of social contract that justified the authority of sovereign rulers. Hobbes argued that in a state of nature—without government—life would be "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." Therefore, individuals voluntarily surrender certain freedoms to a sovereign in exchange for security, peace, and order. This concept revolutionized political thought by emphasizing rational self-interest and collective agreement as the basis for political authority.

Core Themes of Leviathan

Human Nature and the State of Nature

• Humans as Rational and Self-Interested: Hobbes believed that people are naturally driven by self-preservation and desire for power.


• The State of Nature: A hypothetical condition where no government exists; characterized by chaos, violence, and anarchy.


• War of All Against All: Hobbes famously described life in the state of nature as a constant struggle for survival, leading to a state of perpetual conflict.

The Social Contract

Hobbes posited that to escape the chaos of the state of nature, individuals agree to form a social contract. This agreement involves surrendering certain freedoms to a sovereign authority in exchange for protection and social order. The contract is mutual and voluntary, but once established, the sovereign's power must be absolute to ensure stability.

The Sovereign and Absolutism

• Necessity of a Sovereign: A powerful, undivided authority is essential to prevent society from reverting to chaos.


• Types of Sovereign: The sovereign can be a monarch or an assembly, but Hobbes preferred a single, central authority.


• Absolutism: The sovereign’s power must be unlimited, as any division would threaten societal stability.

Religion and Politics

Although Leviathan discusses religion, Hobbes advocates for the subordination of religious authority to the sovereign to prevent religious conflicts from destabilizing society. He emphasizes the importance of unity in faith and authority for peace and order.

Structure of Leviathan

Part I: Of Man

This section explores human nature, passions, and the motivations behind human behavior. Hobbes analyzes the faculties of the mind, the role of desire and aversion, and the concept of the passions that drive human action.

Part II: Of Commonwealth

Hobbes discusses the formation of the civil state, the social contract, and the necessity of a sovereign authority. This section lays out the principles for establishing and maintaining political order.

Part III: Of a Christian Commonwealth

This part examines the relationship between religion and politics, emphasizing the importance of a unified religious doctrine under the sovereign’s authority to promote social stability.

What Makes Leviathan Unique and Influential?

Realist Perspective on Human Nature

Hobbes’ view of humans as motivated by self-interest and driven by passions was revolutionary. His emphasis on rational self-preservation as the basis for social order contrasted sharply with earlier divine or moral explanations of political authority.

Rejection of Divine Right and Emphasis on Secular Authority

Unlike the prevailing notion that kings ruled by divine right, Hobbes argued that legitimate authority arises from social contracts, not divine decree. This shift laid the groundwork for modern secular political philosophy.

Foundation of Modern Political Science

Leviathan’s principles influenced later thinkers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and contributed to the development of concepts like sovereignty, authority, and the social contract that underpin modern democratic theory.

Criticisms and Debates Surrounding Leviathan

Authoritarian Implications

Hobbes’ advocacy for an absolute sovereign has been criticized for endorsing authoritarianism and limiting individual freedoms. Critics argue that such a concentration of power can lead to tyranny.

Human Nature Assumptions

Some scholars challenge Hobbes’ pessimistic view of human nature, suggesting that humans are capable of cooperation, altruism, and moral development beyond mere self-interest.

Relevance Today

Despite criticisms, Leviathan remains relevant in discussions about state authority, the role of government, and the balance between security and liberty in contemporary politics.

Conclusion: Why Is Leviathan Still Important?

Understanding Leviathan is essential for grasping the foundations of modern political philosophy. Hobbes’ exploration of human nature, the necessity of a strong sovereign, and the social contract continue to influence political theory, law, and governance. Whether seen as a defense of strong authority or a blueprint for social order, Leviathan offers profound insights into the nature of society and the importance of political stability.