Thomas Hobbes was a seminal figure in political philosophy, and his insights continue to influence contemporary thought. Renowned for his bleak outlook on human nature and societal constructs, Hobbes provided profound observations on governance, liberty, and the socio-political state of humans. This collection compiles quotes that encapsulate the essence of his philosophy, offering timeless reflections that resonate with today's complex world. Whether you seek to explore the depths of human nature, understand the power dynamics within societies, or delve into the philosophical underpinnings of liberty and fear, these curated quotes will provide enlightening perspectives. Here are 10 subcategories with 12 quotes each, illuminating the thoughts of Thomas Hobbes.
Human Nature Quotes
"The condition of man... is a condition of war of everyone against everyone."
"The passions that incline men to peace are fear of death, desire for commodious living."
"In the state of nature, profit is the measure of right."
"The life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short."
"Leisure is the mother of philosophy."
"Curiosity is the lust of the mind."
"Reason is the scout of passion."
"Imagination and memory are but one thing."
"Human nature is the sum total of human experience."
"The origin of great enterprises is not to be sought in constitutions."
"Reason... is nothing but reckoning."
"Man is made of desire, aversion, hope, and fear."
Philosophy of Fear Quotes
"Fear and I were born twins."
"Fear of power invisible is the natural seed of religion."
"Hell is truth seen too late."
"It is not wisdom but authority that makes a law."
"Covenants, without the sword, are but words."
"The strongest sinew of war is money."
"Fear is the mother of foresight."
"Fear of things invisible is the natural seed of that which everyone in himself calls religion."
"Appetite and fear are the two greatest masters of the human mind."
"Courage is knowing when to be afraid."
"The only commonwealth is that of fear."
"Authority without wisdom is like a heavy ax without an edge."
Social Contract Quotes
"Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues."
"Covenants, without the sword, are but words."
"The social contract lies at the foundation of social order."
"No man's private may not be set against the interest of all."
"Asa person, a commonwealth is called a law."
"Obligation is thralldom, and freedom is its opposite."
"Civil society is the agreement of many men unto one end."
"Community is a multitude of men subject to laws of reason."
"Commonwealth, or State, is an artificial man."
"Protection is the very essence of the natural obligation."
"The aim of social contract is mutual preservation."
"Equality lies in the balance of power."
Liberty and Power Quotes
"Liberty, as understood by Hobbes, is the absence of opposition."
"To win supreme power, one must possess supreme authority."
"A free man is he that… is not hindered to do what he hath the will to do."
"The liberty of the subject lies in actions that laws do not forbid."
"The right of nature... is the liberty each man has to use his own power."
"Law is the public conscience."
"Power is a human desire, not a mere factor of society."
"True liberty is the adherence to a social contract."
"Without laws, men have no liberty."
"Power is the ultimate currency."
"Authority is conferred, not acquired."
"Evil and power walk hand in hand."
Philosophy of Governance Quotes
"The end of governance is to protect and advance the welfare of society."
"Justice is the constant will to render everyone his due."
"The sovereign is the soul of the commonwealth."
"Good laws arise from good governance."
"Commonwealths are instituted for their preservation."
"Justice is the bond of men in society."
"A just ruler seeks to balance the needs of all."
"Governance is the art of guiding society."
"A ruler's power is legitimized through the consent of the governed."
"True authority commands respect, not fear."
"Social harmony is the testament of wise governance."
"Public welfare should be the supreme law."
State and Commonwealth Quotes
"The state is an artificial person created by a covenant."
"Commonwealth is a multitude of men united by agreements."
"A nation thrives on the unity of purpose."
"Common good lies at the heart of the commonwealth."
"A state thrives on just laws conjunct with power."
"The safety of the people is the supreme law."
"The state is a realm of order and authority."
"Power and responsibility define a commonwealth’s strength."
"Authority is only justified by the safety it ensures."
"The foundation of the state is harmony and justice."
"A secure commonwealth is the highest political asset."
"Liberty in commonwealth stretches as far as the law permits."
Religious Philosophy Quotes
"Religion is aligned with fear derived from ignorance."
"Faith without reason binds minds with superstition."
"The church should uphold the state’s laws."
"True faith derives from reasoned understanding."
"Religious duty lies in obedience to sovereign laws."
"A theocracy is discord camouflaged with divine ambition."
"Superstition arises from weakness of the mind."
"Religion is but the shadow of authority."
"Faith attorns to reason, not rituals."
"Religious peace relies on political obedience."
"Superstition undercuts societal order."
"Reason lights the path of true faith."
Knowledge and Wisdom Quotes
"Knowledge is power."
"Science is the force that propels human advancement."
"Ignorance breeds disorder and chaos."
"Wisdom lights the way to peace."
"The pursuit of knowledge begins with curiosity."
"Understanding is the ladder of inspiration."
"True wisdom resides in discerning truths."
"Knowledge dispels the darkness of ignorance."
"Wise men plant trees, knowing they bear no fruit for themselves."
"Intellect without wisdom is reckless ambition."
"Inquiry is the root of all scientific progress."
"Knowledge must strengthen moral foundations."
War and Peace Quotes
"War is necessary to establish peace."
"In time of peace, prepare for war."
"Peace is a void filled by diplomacy."
"War arises from power disputes."
"The true cost of war is peace lost."
"Peace thrives upon mutual guarantees."
"Strive for peace through justice."
"True peace requires unparalleled vigilance."
"War tears down civilizations, peace rebuilds them."
"Negotiation precedes peace in earnest."
"Security defines peaceful boundaries."
"Peace manifests through equality."
Socio-Political Power Struggle Quotes
"Power corrupts when unheeded by duty."
"Society hungers for balance in power."
"Political struggle fuels societal change."
"Conflict births leaders."
"Equality is the counterbalance of power."
"Consistent dialogue dismantles power rivalries."
"True power thrives on cooperation, not conflict."
"Civil discord shapes a nation’s ethos."
"Stability is born out of controlled power exchanges."
"Unyielding desire fuels political ambition."
"Leadership is tempered by resilience."
"Societal power lies in collective trust."
Final words
In the realm of political philosophy, Thomas Hobbes stands as a towering figure whose insights delve into the intricacies of human nature, governance, and societal constructs. Through his piercing observations, Hobbes reveals the fundamental truths about fear, power, and the human condition, challenging us to reflect on our societal frameworks. His conception of the state as an artificial construct formed through social contracts remains profoundly relevant, offering a vital framework for understanding modern political systems. In a world perpetually faced with challenges, Hobbes' philosophical legacy prompts us to examine the forces that shape our existence and encourages us to seek balance and harmony. As we navigate the complexities of the contemporary world, Hobbes' wisdom serves as a reminder of the enduring essence of humanity's quest for order amidst chaos.
