1967 Quote by Hannah Arendt
““The philosophy of Hobbes , it is true, contains nothing of modern race doctrines, which not only stir up the mob, but in their totalitarian form outline very clearly the forms of organization through which humanity could carry the prerequisite for all race doctrines, that is, the exclusion in principle of the idea of humanity which constitutes the sole regulating idea of international law. With the assumption that foreign politics is necessarily outside of the human contract, engaged in the perpetual war of all against all, which is the law of the "state of nature," Hobbes affords the best possible theoretical foundation for those naturalistic ideologies which hold nations to be tribes, separated from each other by nature, without any connection whatever, unconscious of the solidarity of mankind and having in common only the instinct for self-preservation which man shares with the animal world. If the idea of humanity, of which the most conclusive symbol is the common origin of the human species, is no longer valid, then nothing is more plausible than a theory according to which brown, yellow, or black races are descended from some other species of apes than the white race, and that all together are predestined by nature to war against each other until they have disappeared from the face of the earth.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Origins of Totalitarianism, Hannah Arendt, 1951
Hobbes’ view of a state of nature supports ideologies that deny shared humanity, enabling racial exclusion and perpetual conflict.
In simple terms: Hobbes’ ideas can justify racism and endless war.
Recognize how political theories can dehumanize.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy analysis
- human rights advocacy
- education
- media commentary
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance security with universal humanity?
- Can political theory be reinterpreted to foster inclusion?
Hobbes also emphasized order and security, which some argue can be used to promote cooperation.