Question

According to this text, how can peace be achieved? Cite evidence from this text, your own experience, and other art or literature in your answer. Excerpts from leviathan

Answer 1

According to Hobbes's Leviathan, peace can be achieved through the formation of a political community and an absolute monarchy. Modern perspectives emphasize the need for spiritual regeneration, goodwill, economic collaboration, and balance of power. Engaging with multiple perspectives enhances the comprehension of Hobbes's social contract theory.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Thomas Hobbes in Leviathan, peace can be achieved by leaving the state of nature and forming a political community that ensures basic needs are met, moderates conflicts, and codifies rules of behavior. Hobbes proposed that this could best be accomplished under the rule of a singular, absolute monarch to prevent discord and factionalism. Additionally, the text suggests a practical method for avoiding war requires not only military strength but also spiritual regeneration, goodwill, faith, economic factors, and a balance of power among nations. These elements must be supported by wisdom and the will to take decisive action.

Evidence from Leviathan

Hobbes saw humans as naturally in conflict in the state of nature, leading to a state of perpetual war. The transition to a peaceful society is envisioned as the creation of an all-powerful sovereign - often a monarchy in Hobbes's view - to impose order and provide security.

Broader Context

Historically, justifications for war have often been coupled with the promise of peace or bringing benefits to conquered peoples. In modern times, what Marshall referred to as spiritual regeneration, goodwill among nations, and economic cooperation are seen as critical to achieving and maintaining peace.

Consideration of Multiple Perspectives

Engaging with a variety of perspectives, such as those offered by classmates or historical interpretations, enriches our understanding of Hobbes's text and broadens our consideration of what is necessary for peace. Incorporating these perspectives allows for a deeper comprehension of the social contract and its implications for peace and governance.

Answer 2

According to this text, peace can be achieved through the establishment of a civil society with a sovereign ruler and an agreed upon set of laws. Thomas Hobbes states in Leviathan that a civil society is “the only way to Peace and Security”, and that it is necessary for “a Common Power to keep them all in awe” (Hobbes, ch.14). This idea is supported by my own experience, as I have seen that when there is a strong, unified government and laws, the citizens of a society are much more likely to experience peace. Furthermore, this idea is supported by other works of art and literature, such as J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, which portrays a society in which a powerful sovereign is able to keep its citizens safe and at peace.