What 17th-century philosopher Thomas Hobbes would say about American democracy today

Published in 1651, 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes is a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy. The book is divided into four main parts: 'Of Man,' 'Of Commonwealth,' 'Of a Christian Commonwealth,' and 'Of the Kingdom of Darkness.' Hobbes argues that the natural state of humans is one of conflict and anarchy, and that the best way to achieve peace and security is through the establishment of a commonwealth governed by an absolute sovereign. This sovereign, which Hobbes terms the 'Leviathan,' has supreme authority over all aspects of governance, including law, religion, and public offices. Hobbes' work is a foundational text in social contract theory and continues to influence political thought to this day.

In "Anxious Politics: Democratic Citizenship in a Threatening World," Bethany Albertson and Shana Guderian delve into the impact of anxiety on political behavior. The authors explore how anxieties surrounding issues like immigration and public health shape voter choices and political attitudes. Through empirical research and experiments, they demonstrate how manipulated anxieties can influence trust in political figures and support for specific policies. The book highlights the complex interplay between emotions, political communication, and democratic participation. Albertson and Guderian's work offers valuable insights into the psychological underpinnings of political decision-making and the challenges of maintaining a healthy democracy in an increasingly uncertain world.