Behemoth vs. Leviathan: Civil War in the Philosophy of Thomas Hobbes - Nadia Souki

A Masterpiece of Political Philosophy

In her groundbreaking book, "Behemoth vs. Leviathan: Civil War in the Philosophy of Thomas Hobbes," Nadia Souki delves into the depths of Thomas Hobbes' political philosophy, offering a fresh and compelling interpretation of his seminal works, "Leviathan" and "Behemoth." Souki argues that Hobbes' political thought is not a monolithic structure but rather a dynamic and evolving body of ideas, shaped by the tumultuous events of the English Civil War.

Hobbes' Journey Through Chaos

Souki begins by tracing Hobbes' intellectual journey, from his early fascination with the scientific revolution to his disillusionment with the breakdown of social order during the civil war. She argues that Hobbes' experiences during this period led him to develop a profound skepticism about human nature and the possibility of achieving a just and peaceful society.

The Birth of Leviathan

In response to the chaos and violence of the civil war, Hobbes turned to philosophy in search of a solution. The result was his masterpiece, "Leviathan," published in 1651. In this work, Hobbes famously argues that humans are naturally selfish and competitive, and that without a strong central authority to enforce order, society would descend into a state of "war of all against all."

The Challenge of Behemoth

However, Souki argues that Hobbes' political thought did not end with "Leviathan." In the years that followed, Hobbes continued to grapple with the problems of political order and the nature of sovereignty. In his later work, "Behemoth," published posthumously in 1682, Hobbes offered a more nuanced and critical view of the English monarchy and the causes of the civil war.

A Dialogue Between Two Masterpieces

Souki's analysis of "Behemoth" reveals a tension between Hobbes' earlier absolutist views and his later, more pragmatic approach to political theory. She argues that "Behemoth" can be seen as a dialogue between Hobbes' two most important works, with each text offering a different perspective on the nature of political power and the challenges of achieving a stable and just society.

A Must-Read for Political Thinkers

"Behemoth vs. Leviathan" is a tour de force of political philosophy, offering a fresh and insightful interpretation of one of the most important thinkers in Western history. Souki's work is essential reading for anyone interested in political theory, the history of ideas, or the enduring legacy of Thomas Hobbes.

Key Features:

• A comprehensive analysis of Thomas Hobbes' political philosophy, focusing on the tension between his absolutist views in "Leviathan" and his more pragmatic approach in "Behemoth."
• A detailed examination of Hobbes' experiences during the English Civil War and how they shaped his political thought.
• A nuanced interpretation of "Behemoth" as a dialogue between Hobbes' two most important works, offering different perspectives on political power and the challenges of achieving a stable and just society.
• A must-read for political thinkers, historians of ideas, and anyone interested in the enduring legacy of Thomas Hobbes.