Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) was an English philosopher, scientist, and historian, renowned for his contributions to political philosophy. His most famous work, Leviathan (1651), articulates his theory of the social contract, which posits that individuals must relinquish some freedoms to a sovereign entity in exchange for security and order. Hobbes is considered one of the founders of modern political philosophy.
Hobbes served the Cavendish family for much of his adult life, working as a tutor, translator, and political advisor. His travels across Europe exposed him to intellectual circles and figures like Galileo, shaping his intellectual development. Besides political theory, Hobbes also engaged with optics, geometry, history, and translation. In his later years, Hobbes translated works such as Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. Hobbes's work has been challenged for his pessimistic view of humanity.