Locke vs Hobbes

It is clear that when people live without a common power to control them, they are in a state of war, where every person is against every other person.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

Since everyone looks out for their own benefit, no one can fairly judge their own case.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

The only purpose of government is to protect people’s property.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

Christian kings can make mistakes when reasoning, but who can judge them?

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

The state of nature has its own law, and that law is reason. Reason teaches us that all people are equal and independent, so no one should harm another in their life, health, freedom, or property.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

The King of France just wants you to trust him and stay quiet until he controls the West Indies and his grandson is ruling Spain. Then, he will allow you to be as safe as he wants you to be in your religion, property, and trade. But who wouldn’t trust him to be a great friend to all of that?

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

I give up my right to govern myself to this person or group, but only if you give up your right in the same way. When people unite under one authority, it’s called a commonwealth. This is the creation of the Leviathan, a "mortal god" that we owe peace and protection to under God.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

Even though the Earth and all creatures are shared by everyone, each person owns their own body. No one else has any right to it but themselves.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

To understand political power correctly and where it comes from, we must first think about the natural state of all people. In this state, everyone is completely free to make their own decisions about their actions and possessions, as long as they follow the law of nature, without needing anyone else's permission.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes

Power can be just as dangerous if shared with others indirectly as it is when directly held by one person.

• John Locke

• Thomas Hobbes