Question

Which among the following statements are justifiably held from Thomas Hobbes’ political theory on the social contract, in his book Leviathan?

• A. It is founded on the hypothetical State of Nature.
• B. All men are made by nature to be equals, therefore, no one has a natural right to govern others.
• C. All are to submit to the authority of an absolute sovereign power.
• D. People can live together only by submitting their individual, particular wills to the collective will.

Hint:

Hobbes prioritizes security and order over liberty, advocating absolute sovereignty as a solution to political chaos.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Understanding Hobbes’ State of Nature.
Hobbes begins with a hypothetical State of Nature where all individuals are naturally equal and live in a condition of insecurity and conflict.
Step 2: Equality and political authority.
Because all are naturally equal, no one has an inherent right to rule over others; political authority must arise from consent.
Step 3: Role of the sovereign.
To escape the chaos of the State of Nature, individuals collectively submit their rights to an absolute sovereign, whose authority must not be divided or challenged.
Step 4: Eliminating option (D).
Option (D) reflects Rousseau’s concept of the “general will,” not Hobbes’ theory. Hobbes emphasizes submission to a sovereign, not to a collective will.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Therefore, statements (A), (B), and (C) correctly reflect Hobbes’ political theory.
Final Answer: (A), (B), and (C)