Thomas Hobbes's Leviathan, published in 1651, is a seminal work in political philosophy that explores the necessity of a social contract and an absolute sovereign. Hobbes famously argues that without a powerful, centralized authority, humanity exists in a "state of nature" characterized by chaos and violence, where life would be "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." This edition, edited by Christopher Brooke, provides scholarly notes and historical context to enhance understanding of Hobbes's arguments.

Why You Should Read?

• Understand foundational concepts of Western political theory, including the social contract and sovereignty.
• Explore timeless questions about human nature, government, and the balance of power.
• Discover the historical and philosophical context of Hobbes's influential ideas.
• Benefit from Christopher Brooke's editorial insights, which clarify the text and its background.