Question

According to Thomas Hobbs, men:

a) Have a range of abilities, some very weak, others strong
b) Are equal in strength of mind and body
c) Are evil
d) Are benevolent, and all work toward the common good.

Answer 1

Thomas Hobbes theorized that men are equal in abilities, leading to a state of fear and competition, necessitating the formation of a social contract with an absolute sovereign for order and peace.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Thomas Hobbes, men are equal in strength of mind and body, which leads to a state of constant competition and mutual fear in the absence of a strong, central authority. Contrary to options that suggest men are benevolent or inherently evil, Hobbes believed that the equality in abilities among men causes insecurities and the potential for conflict. Therefore, out of self-preservation and the desire for an orderly society, individuals enter into a social contract, relinquishing some freedoms to a sovereign ruler. This absolute authority, the Leviathan, is meant to prevent the state of anarchy and ensure peace.