The idea of a social contract in the writings of Thomas Hobbes
https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6401-2023-4-89-99
Abstract
The article considers the theory of the social contract by T. Hobbes, based on the ideas of achieving and maintaining social order through, in fact, the absolute power of the state in the person of the sovereign. Hobbes’ ideas have regained relevance in conditions of extreme uncertainty of the further development of mankind, in conditions of declining popularity of the liberal model of governance, democratic institutions of power, the diminished efficiency of which is clearly demonstrated in emergency situations. Social order arises from the situation of appointing the sovereign as an arbitrator, not only for the balance of private interests, but also because citizens should perceive him as an instance of truth. In addition, Hobbes’ idea of achieving and ensuring security through the state becomes extremely suitable for the implementation of modern concepts of state security related to the possibility of total citizen control, with the degree of tolerance for the interference in the lives of citizens.
Keywords
social contract,
contractarianism,
the natural state,
natural rights,
the war of all against all,
the state
Supporting agencies: The article was carried out in the framework of the Russian Science Foundation grant, no. 23-18-00093, project “The fate of the social contract in Russia. The evolution of ideas and lessons of implementation”.
About the Author
G. V. Tartygasheva
Russian State University for the Humanities
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Galina V. Tartygasheva, Cand. of Sci. (Sociology)
bld. 6, Miusskaya Square, Moscow, 125047
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Review
For citations:
Tartygasheva G.V. The idea of a social contract in the writings of Thomas Hobbes. RSUH/RGGU BULLETIN. Series Philosophy. Social Studies. Art Studies. 2023;(4):89-99. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6401-2023-4-89-99
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