Hobbes’ Leviathan

Hobbes’ Leviathan is a philosophical book that argues a strong, central authority—like a ruler or government—is essential for maintaining peace and order. Hobbes believed humans are naturally self-interested and prone to chaos without rules. To avoid conflict and ensure safety, individuals willingly give up some freedoms and accept the authority of a powerful ruler, creating a social contract. This collective agreement forms the Leviathan, a metaphor for a sovereign who has absolute power to enforce laws and protect society from disorder, thus enabling people to coexist peacefully.