Article dives into the life of the man who gave us Leviathan. Often misunderstood as a pessimist, Hobbes crafted one of the boldest political theories of his time—and lived a life filled with controversy and wit.
Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes was born prematurely in 1588 because his mother went into labor early out of fear of the Spanish Armada.
His most famous book, Leviathan, argued that people need a strong ruler to avoid chaos and violence.
Hobbes believed humans are driven by fear and self-interest more than reason or morality.
He translated Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey into English late in life, showing his deep love for classical literature.
Despite promoting absolute monarchy, Thomas Hobbes himself had to flee England during the English Civil War.
He was once the tutor of a future king—Charles II—while living in exile in France.
Hobbes considered geometry the ideal form of knowledge, believing it demonstrated the clarity he sought in philosophy.
His works were controversial and even banned by the Catholic Church and censored in England.
Hobbes described life without government as “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.”
He lived to the age of 91, which was remarkable at a time when life expectancy was far lower.
Thomas Hobbes had a sharp wit and often mocked religious institutions, earning enemies in both church and academia.
Although he valued order, he distrusted democracy, calling it chaotic and easily manipulated by passions.
He viewed fear as a necessary tool to maintain social stability and obedience.
Hobbes continued to write into his 80s, publishing well into old age despite criticism.
Thomas Hobbes believed that only a powerful sovereign could ensure peace, even if that meant giving up individual freedoms.
