68.4k views
3 votes
What does Hobbes mean when he says, 'Will, not force, is the basis of the state?'

User Eelco
by
8.1k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

Hobbes believes the basis of the state is will, not force, as people voluntarily give up some individual freedom and rights in a social contract to maintain peace and order.

Step-by-step explanation:

Thomas Hobbes proposed that in a society, the basis of the state is will, not force. According to Hobbes, people voluntarily give up some of their individual freedom and rights in a social contract in order to maintain peace, security, and order.

This means that the state is formed based on the collective will and consent of the individuals, rather than being imposed by force. The state exists to protect the rights and interests of its citizens and ensure the common good.

User Dfowj
by
8.4k points