Final answer:
Thomas Hobbes defined the Law of Nature as moral principles derived from reason that preserve life and prevent harm, which are upheld by a powerful government through a social contract.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of the Law of Nature According to Thomas Hobbes
The Law of Nature, as derived from reason according to Thomas Hobbes, refers to moral principles that preserve life and prevent harm. Hobbes believed that in the absence of a political authority or sovereign, following the Law of Nature would make individuals vulnerable to attacks by others. Therefore, he proposed the creation of a Leviathan, a powerful government entity, to impose fear of punishment and enforce the Law of Nature. Consequently, Hobbes's view led to the concept of a social contract, where individuals authorize a sovereign power to uphold these laws for the preservation of peace and safety.
In contrast to divine commandments, aristocratic codes, or merely human constructs, Hobbes's Law of Nature is based on human reason and seeks to provide universally applicable rules that, if followed by everyone, would result in a harmonious state.