Episode 1215: Continental Philosophy and Its Origins - Pt. 5 - Thomas Hobbes w/ Thomas777

May 18, 2025

Thomas777, a revisionist historian and fiction writer, dives deep into the world of Thomas Hobbes, shedding light on his crucial yet often overlooked role in political philosophy. They discuss Hobbes' scientific approach to ethics and governance, contrasting it with Enlightenment thinkers. The conversation also touches on Hobbes' views on human nature, civic duty, and the complexities of political theory, emphasizing his insights on vulnerability under sovereign power. Their analysis critiques modern political dynamics, revealing the enduring relevance of Hobbesian thought.

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INSIGHT

Hobbes' Scientific Political Philosophy

Hobbes created the first scientific basis for political and ethical philosophy, linking politics to a kind of geometry.
He treated human behavior in political terms as mechanistic and driven by passions rather than classical virtue or metaphysical ideals.

INSIGHT

Politics is Reciprocal Self-Interest

Hobbes held that civic responsibility arises from a pragmatic self-interest and reciprocal non-aggression among individuals.
Moral evaluations in politics stem from instinctive passions, not higher moral imperatives or virtuous souls.

INSIGHT

Hobbes' Brutal Political Realism

Hobbes rejected classical ideals aiming too high, seeing politics as centered on violence and power.
His brutish realism underpins modern political monoculture, making progressivism pragmatically brutal and anti-human in essence.

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History of the Peloponnesian War

Thucydides

Written by Thucydides, this work is a detailed and insightful historical account of the Peloponnesian War. It chronicles the conflict between the Peloponnesian League, led by Sparta, and the Athenian Empire, emphasizing the significant impact of this war on Greek society. Thucydides outlines the historical context leading up to the war, tracing the evolution of Greek society and detailing the tensions and incidents that led to the conflict. The narrative examines key events, alliances, and the complex interplay of human ambition and political motivations during the war.

LEVIATHAN

Thomas Hobbes

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.

The Prince

Niccolo Machiavelli

Written in the early 16th century, 'The Prince' is a realistic instruction guide for new rulers. Machiavelli argues that an effective leader must be skilled in the art of war, sometimes cruel, and willing to use deception and manipulation to achieve political goals. The book is divided into chapters that discuss various types of principalities, how to acquire and maintain power, and the qualities a prince should possess. Machiavelli uses historical examples, including the career of Cesare Borgia, to illustrate his points. The treatise emphasizes the importance of maintaining the goodwill of the people and the stability of the state, even if it means deviating from traditional virtues. 'The Prince' remains a controversial but influential work in modern political philosophy.