Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes
Author: Thomas Hobbes
Publication Year: 1651
Genre: Political Philosophy, Social Contract Theory
Synopsis: Leviathan, whose full title is Leviathan or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Commonwealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, is a foundational work of political philosophy. Written during the English Civil War, Hobbes argues for a social contract and governance by an absolute sovereign as the only way to avoid the "war of all against all" that characterizes the state of nature. Hobbes details his views on human nature, the necessity of a strong central authority, and the relationship between government and its citizens. He posits that individuals must surrender some freedoms to a sovereign power in exchange for protection and order, advocating for a commonwealth led by an undivided authority. The work also delves into religion, ethics, and the structure of a Christian commonwealth. Hobbes introduces the concept of the "Leviathan" as an artificial person, a body politic mimicking the human body with the sovereign as its head, ensuring collective security.
Page Count: Page counts vary across editions.
Awards/Recognition: Leviathan is regarded as one of the most influential works of social contract theory and a cornerstone of Western political philosophy.
Adaptations: While there aren't direct film adaptations of Leviathan that mirror the book precisely, the core themes have been explored in various films. The Leviathan (2014) is considered an adaptation of Thomas Hobbes' political philosophy. The themes and concept of Leviathan have inspired other films. There is also a short film LEVIATHAN (2006) A SHORT FILM BASED ON THE BOOK BY THOMAS HOBBES.
