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Sovereign authority is necessary for maintaining social order from "summary" of Hobbes: Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes

Sovereign authority, which is the absolute power vested in a single entity or individual, is crucial for the preservation of social order within a political society. Without this sovereign authority, people would be left to their own devices, resulting in a state of constant fear and chaos. In the absence of a common power to keep them in check, individuals would naturally act in their own self-interest, leading to a perpetual state of conflict and insecurity. The need for sovereign authority arises from the inherently competitive and self-interested nature of human beings. According to Hobbes, in the state of nature, where there is no overarching authority to enforce rules and maintain order, individuals are driven by their own desires and fears. This leads to a "war of all against all," where life is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short. In such a state, there is no room for cooperation or trust, as everyone is constantly vying for power and resources. To escape this state of nature and create a more stable and secure society, individuals must enter into a social contract with one another, surrendering some of their freedom and autonomy to a sovereign authority. This authority, whether it be a monarch, a democratic government, or some other ruling body, is tasked with establishing and enforcing laws that protect the common good and ensure the well-being of all citizens. By submitting to the authority of the sovereign, individuals are able to transcend their selfish impulses and live together in peace and harmony. The sovereign is granted the power to make and enforce laws, settle disputes, and punish wrongdoers, thereby curbing the destructive tendencies of human nature and upholding the social order. In return, citizens agree to obey the laws and uphold the authority of the sovereign, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that serves the interests of all.
  1. Sovereign authority acts as a necessary safeguard against the inherent discord and conflict that would otherwise plague human interactions. It provides a framework for cooperation, establishes a system of justice, and ensures the stability and security of society as a whole. Without this central authority to mediate and regulate human behavior, social order would quickly disintegrate, plunging individuals back into a state of constant strife and uncertainty. Thus, the presence of sovereign authority is not only desirable but essential for the preservation of a functional and cohesive political community.
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Hobbes: Leviathan

Thomas Hobbes

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