Leviathan

Given the natural laws put forth in previous chapters, Hobbes argues that the most advantageous state of being for humankind is to live in a commonwealth, a sovereign state led by either a single individual or an assembly of individuals. In justifying why this is, the author poses a question: Why can’t humankind live peaceably like other sociable animals such as bees and ants? To that, Hobbes writes that humans, unlike animals, are in a state of constant competition for honor and dignity. Moreover, humans are capable of deceiving one another through language. Perhaps most importantly, humans can distinguish between what is best for themselves and what is best for the community. Thus, while animals agree on a common good through natural means, humankind relies on covenants with one another.

In Hobbes’s view the most effective covenant under which humankind may live is the commonwealth, a sovereign state united under one ruler or one ruling assembly. He likens this leader—heretofore referred to as a sovereign—as the leviathan, the monstrous sea serpent from the Book of Job in the Bible. He writes, “This is the generation of that great LEVIATHAN, or rather, to speak more reverently, of that mortal god to which we owe, under the immortal God, our peace and defence” (109).