What’s it all about?
The Leviathan has been called the greatest work of political philosophy ever written. Why? What were Hobbes’ ideas that so influenced the subsequent development of Western politics?
What will we cover?
This session will cover the life and contributions of Thomas Hobbes, an English philosopher who lived through the 1600s in England: a time of revolution and regicide – seemingly endless war and strife.
Not much wonder that Hobbes had a particularly dim view of the nature of human nature. But at a time when all around were losing their heads, Hobbes kept his down and lived to a ripe old age.
We’ll focus in particular on Hobbes’ idea of the Social Contract, and what this means for individual freedom.
Who will be teaching?
Dr Meredith Doig is President of the Rationalist Society of Australia.