Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes presents a compelling argument that the establishment of a commonwealth through a social contract is the most effective means of promoting social harmony and civil peace. In Hobbes’ vision, the ideal commonwealth is governed by a sovereign power endowed with absolute authority to ensure the common defense and maintain the security of the state.

In his introduction, Hobbes describes this commonwealth as an “artificial person,” a body politic that resembles a human body, with the sovereign acting as its head. The frontispiece of the first edition of Leviathan, which Hobbes helped design, vividly portrays the commonwealth as a massive human form composed of the bodies of its citizens, with the sovereign serving as the head.

This entity, referred to as the Leviathan, takes its name from a fearsome sea creature mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, symbolizing the immense power and authority of the sovereign over the commonwealth.

Leviathan is a foundational text in political philosophy, offering profound insights into the nature of authority, governance, and the social contract. This classic work by Thomas Hobbes remains essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the origins of modern political thought.

The Kindle edition of Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes provides readers with easy access to this significant work, making it possible to explore Hobbes’ ideas on any digital device. Whether for academic study or personal interest, Leviathan is a must-read that continues to influence political theory to this day.