Why did Thomas Hobbes believe in absolute monarchy? This question delves into the philosophical underpinnings of one of the most influential political thinkers in history. Hobbes, in his seminal work “Leviathan,” argues for the establishment of an absolute monarchy as the most effective means to prevent chaos and ensure social order. This article will explore the reasons behind Hobbes’ belief in absolute monarchy, examining his views on human nature, the social contract, and the role of the sovereign.
Hobbes’ belief in absolute monarchy stems from his understanding of human nature. He posits that humans are inherently selfish and driven by self-interest, leading to a constant state of war. In this state of nature, life is “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.” To escape this state, individuals enter into a social contract, surrendering some of their freedoms to a sovereign authority in exchange for protection and security.
One of the primary reasons Hobbes supported absolute monarchy was his belief that a strong, centralized government was necessary to prevent the return to the state of nature. In his view, absolute monarchy provided the most effective form of government to ensure stability and order. Hobbes argued that a monarch, who holds absolute power, can maintain order by having the ability to enforce laws and decisions without the need for consensus or compromise.
Furthermore, Hobbes believed that a monarch could better protect the rights and interests of the people. In his social contract, individuals agree to surrender their freedoms to the sovereign, but they retain the right to be protected. An absolute monarch, according to Hobbes, would have the authority to make decisions that would safeguard the welfare of the population, as they would have a comprehensive understanding of the common good.
Another factor contributing to Hobbes’ support for absolute monarchy was his skepticism of democracy and the potential for political fragmentation. Hobbes was critical of the idea that power should be shared among multiple individuals or groups, as he believed it would lead to internal conflict and hinder the ability of the government to act decisively. In his view, a single, powerful monarch could better navigate the complexities of international relations and maintain a strong defense against external threats.
Moreover, Hobbes’ belief in absolute monarchy was influenced by his observations of the political landscape during his time. The 17th century was marked by the English Civil War and the subsequent Glorious Revolution, which highlighted the dangers of political instability and the need for a strong central authority. Hobbes drew from these events to support his argument for an absolute monarchy as the most effective means to prevent such chaos in the future.
Despite his advocacy for absolute monarchy, it is important to note that Hobbes’ views were not without criticism. Many contemporaries and subsequent scholars have argued that his support for an absolute sovereign is incompatible with the principles of liberty and individual rights. However, Hobbes’ defense of absolute monarchy can be seen as a response to the political turmoil of his time and as a means to ensure the stability and security of the state.
In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes believed in absolute monarchy due to his understanding of human nature, the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent chaos, and his skepticism of democratic governance. While his views have been subject to criticism, they remain a significant contribution to the field of political philosophy and continue to be debated by scholars today.
