Pessimism and Power: The Federalist Perspective

This chapter examines the pessimistic view of human nature articulated in the Federalist Papers, highlighting how the founding fathers designed the Constitution to balance power and prevent chaos. It contrasts the views of Thomas Hobbes on authority and order with those of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who believed in the inherent goodness of humanity. The discussion emphasizes the lasting implications of these philosophical debates on contemporary governance and societal structures.