Question

Who among the following political thinkers considered the state of nature as "war of every man against every man"?

• A. Thomas Hobbes
• B. John Locke
• C. J. J. Rousseau
• D. Machiavelli

Hint:

Hobbes’ view of the state of nature is characterized by constant conflict, which leads to the need for a powerful sovereign to establish peace.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Hobbes' view of the state of nature.
Thomas Hobbes, in his work Leviathan, described the state of nature as a condition where every individual is in constant conflict, where life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." In this state, there is no authority to maintain order, leading to constant war of every man against every man.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (1) Thomas Hobbes: This is correct. Hobbes famously described the state of nature as a "war of every man against every man."
- (2) John Locke: Locke had a more optimistic view of the state of nature, seeing it as a state of relative peace and equality, with natural rights to life, liberty, and property.
- (3) J. J. Rousseau: Rousseau viewed the state of nature as a peaceful and idyllic time before the advent of society and private property.
- (4) Machiavelli: Machiavelli discussed power and the state, but not in the context of the "war of every man against every man."
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (1) Thomas Hobbes.