Hobbes and Locke - Term 2, Lecture 2

This week we discussed Hobbes and Locke.  We looked at their views on human nature and the control of the state.

Hobbes believed that humans are self-interested and as such if left to their own devices would lead to chaos and anarchy due to the conflicts that this self-interest gives rise to.  People are driven only by pride and fear and that conflict arises either from competition, mistrust or glory.  For this reason society must be regulated through an absolute authority who serves as the ruler and protector of society.  Whilst the people form a contract to give up their rights for this protection and leadership, the ruler remains outside the contract but Hobbes feels this is necessary.

Locke’s views of human nature were less extreme, people have rights and the existence of a government only arises through the agreement of its members (the contract is between the people and therefore the government’s power is limited and more democratic as the people can have their say – a majority/democratic rule).  Although Locke also viewed humans as self-interested and the state of nature doesn’t necessarily promote stability, it is not as disastrous a view of the Hobbesian perspective.

Locke also believed people have natural rights, everyone owns themselves, their labour and the fruits of their labour, although he does outline restrictions to these.