The Philosophy of Thomas Hobbes: Exploring Human Nature and Society

Why did Thomas Hobbes believe people were greedy?

Final Answer: Thomas Hobbes believed that people were greedy because he viewed humans as inherently selfish and motivated by their desires.

Understanding Thomas Hobbes' View on Human Nature

Thomas Hobbes was a renowned English philosopher who lived during the 17th century. He is best known for his work in political philosophy, specifically in exploring human nature and society. One of the key aspects of Hobbes' philosophy is his belief in the inherent selfishness and greediness of human beings.

In his seminal work Leviathan, Hobbes argues that humans are naturally driven by their desires and self-interest. He believed that individuals act in their own self-preservation and pursue what they perceive to be in their best interest. According to Hobbes, this innate selfishness leads to competition, conflict, and ultimately, a state of war.

Hobbes believed that in the absence of a higher authority or social institutions, individuals would compete for limited resources, leading to a perpetual state of conflict and fear. This view of human nature as inherently greedy and self-interested formed the basis of Hobbes' justification for the necessity of strong government and social order.