Arts & Ideas
Hobbes and New Leviathans
Sep 28, 2023
This podcast discusses the relevance of Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan in understanding contemporary political issues. It explores Hobbes' belief in the creation of a sovereign power driven by fear, the emergence of new leviathans and their impact on security and freedom, the contradiction of Hobbes as a liberal, the shift from liberalism to anxiety, the discontents and insecurities of Hobbes' time and their relevance today, Hobbes' theory on pride and self-respect in the Leviathan state, and the challenges faced by liberalism today.
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Quick takeaways
- Hobbes' Leviathan offers insights into contemporary political troubles by addressing the need for a strong sovereign to preserve peace and maintain social order.
- Hobbes' philosophy embodies certain liberal premises, such as the protection of individual rights, equality, and the role of reason in forming a legitimate political system, while also challenging freedom of expression and dissent.
Deep dives
The Relevance of Hobbes' Leviathan in Today's Political Problems
Hobbes' Leviathan offers insights into contemporary political troubles by addressing the need for a strong sovereign to preserve peace and maintain social order. Hobbes argues that human beings are driven by self-preservation and fear, which leads them to seek power over others. He emphasizes the importance of establishing a sovereign authority to prevent a state of war and anarchy. However, Hobbes underestimates the difficulties of transitioning from anarchy to a stable government. The Leviathan's relevance lies in its analysis of failed states and the rise of authoritarian regimes, highlighting the dangers of state failure and the need for a secure society.
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