2.2 Introduction to Thomas Hobbes
Updated: January 23, 2025
Summary
Thomas Hobbes, the 'monster of Malmesbury' in the 17th century, was known for his materialistic views and advocacy for universal causal determinism. His work 'Leviathan' portrayed a bleak outlook on human nature, supporting absolute sovereignty to maintain peace. Hobbes' legacy challenged divine revelation, emphasized a naturalistic foundation, and distinguished between material and immaterial substances. Despite being a compatibilist, he faced criticism for his perceived atheistic views on immortality, morality, and the afterlife, sparking controversies and accusations of atheism.
Introduction to Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes, though not celebrated in the 17th century, was infamous and known as the 'monster of Malmesbury.' He denied the existence of immaterial substance and magic, advocating for a materialistic view grounded in universal causal determinism.
Leviathan and Political Philosophy
Hobbes is best known for his work 'Leviathan' (1651), where he presents a pessimistic view of human nature as a war of all against all. He argues for absolute sovereignty to maintain peace and prevent civil war.
Legacy of Hobbes
Hobbes, as a materialist and political theorist, left a legacy challenging divine revelation and advocating for naturalistic foundations. He distinguished between material and immaterial substances, leading to his notorious reputation.
Compatibilism and Free Will
Hobbes was a compatibilist, believing in free will within the framework of determinism. He defined freedom as the absence of external impediments, emphasizing the ability to act based on one's will despite physical constraints.
Immortality and Atheism
Hobbes faced challenges regarding immortality and was perceived as atheistic. His views on morality and the afterlife clashed with societal norms, leading to controversies and accusations of atheism.
FAQ
Q: What is Thomas Hobbes known for?
A: Thomas Hobbes is best known for his work 'Leviathan' where he presents a pessimistic view of human nature and argues for absolute sovereignty.
Q: How did Thomas Hobbes view human nature?
A: Hobbes viewed human nature as a war of all against all, advocating for absolute sovereignty to maintain peace and prevent civil war.
Q: What is materialism?
A: Materialism is the philosophical belief that everything can be explained in terms of matter and material interactions, denying the existence of immaterial substances.
Q: What is determinism?
A: Determinism is the philosophical concept that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will, leading to the idea that free will is an illusion.
Q: What is compatibilism?
A: Compatibilism is the philosophical belief that free will and determinism are compatible, suggesting that one can have free will within a framework of determinism.
Q: How did Thomas Hobbes define freedom?
A: Hobbes defined freedom as the absence of external impediments, emphasizing the ability to act based on one's will despite physical constraints.
Q: Why was Thomas Hobbes often perceived as atheistic?
A: Hobbes' views on morality, the afterlife, and his challenges regarding immortality clashed with societal norms, leading to accusations of atheism and controversies.
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