Covenant Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“A Covenant not to defend myself from force, by force, is always void. For... no man can transfer or lay down his Right to save himself from Death.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan, 1651
A covenant that forces one to surrender self‑defense is invalid because individuals retain the natural right to protect themselves from death.
In simple terms: Self‑defense cannot be contractually waived.
Key Takeaway
Never surrender your right to self‑preservation.
Themes
rights
self‑defense
contracts
law
philosophy
Mood
defiant
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legal negotiations
- personal safety
- political theory
- civil rights
Key Concepts
natural law
social contract
sovereignty
Questions to Reflect On
- Can societies balance individual self‑defense with collective safety?
- When is it justified to limit personal defense for the greater good?
A Different Perspective
The claim assumes absolute individual autonomy, ignoring collective security needs.
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