Hobbesian view of human nature

Hobbesian human nature is the idea that people are naturally driven by self-interest, desires, and a desire for power. Without rules or authority, individuals tend to act in ways that can lead to conflict and chaos because they seek to fulfill their own needs, sometimes at others' expense. Hobbes believed that to prevent this chaos, people agree to create rules and submit to a strong authority—like a government—that maintains peace and order. In essence, humans are seen as naturally competitive and self-focused, requiring structure to live peacefully.