Body Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“And because the condition of Man, (as hath been declared in the precedent Chapter) is a condition of Warre of every one against everyone; in which case every one is governed by his own Reason; and there is nothing he can make use of, that may not be a help unto him, in preserving his life against his enemyes; It followeth, that in such a condition, every man has a Right to every thing; even to one anothers body.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan, 1651
In a state of nature, individuals act solely to survive, leading to universal conflict and a claim to all resources.
In simple terms: People fight for survival, claiming everything as theirs.
Recognize the need for social contracts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political theory
- law
- international relations
- personal safety
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How would societies function without a governing authority?
- Is absolute liberty truly possible?
Assumes rational self‑interest always dominates.