Leviathan

by Thomas Hobbes
Leviathan cover
Good Books rating 4.11
Philosophy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £4.99–£18.99
Bookshop
Format • £9.49–£12.34
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1429
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781554810031
  • Publisher: Broadview Press
  • Published: 2010-12-23
  • Formats: 60
  • Reviews: 4

Leviathan is a seminal work of political philosophy that presents a materialistic and mechanistic view of human beings and the natural world. Hobbes argues for absolute sovereignty, asserting that the government holds all political power and can control every aspect of life. The book is divided into four parts, each exploring different facets of his theory, including a critique of religious concepts and the corruption of religion by priestly authority. This revised edition includes responses from Hobbes's contemporaries, providing a comprehensive look at the debates his ideas sparked.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-17
interesting 3.70

This book is recommended for those interested in politics, offering an interesting read with a unique perspective. The reviewer found it engaging and thought-provoking.

The reviewer highly recommends this book to anyone with an interest in politics, praising it as an engaging and thought-provoking read. They appreciate the unique perspective it offers on political thought. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy delving into philosophical and political theories will find it particularly rewarding.

Quick quotes

    Overall I think this was a rather interesting read and would recommend it to anyone who makes politics their interest.

    It's a classic that stands the test of time.

    The arguments presented are compelling and thought-provoking.

James Taylor's Creative Life Blog · James Taylor · 2023-01-01
essential 4.75

This book is a monumental work in political philosophy, offering a compelling view on societal organization. It is considered essential reading for understanding political thought.

James Taylor's review underscores the importance of Leviathan in the field of political philosophy, highlighting its enduring influence. They appreciate Hobbes' comprehensive exploration of how societies should be structured and the necessity of a social contract. The reviewer finds the book's arguments persuasive and its insights into human nature particularly compelling. They recommend it as essential reading for anyone interested in political theory and the foundations of modern governance.

Quick quotes

    Hobbes' 'Leviathan' is one of the most important books in political philosophy.

    It offered a view of how we should organise ourselves.

    It is essential reading for understanding political thought.

The Guardian · 2017-11-20
insightful 4.50

This book is celebrated as a foundational text in Western thought, praised for its wit and imaginative depth. It offers a profound exploration of the social contract and human nature.

The Guardian highlights Leviathan as a cornerstone of Western philosophy, noting its enduring relevance and intellectual rigor. The reviewer appreciates Hobbes' ability to blend theoretical depth with engaging prose, making complex ideas accessible. They emphasize the book's timeless insights into power, society, and human behavior, which continue to resonate in modern political discourse. The wit and imagination employed by Hobbes are particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of enjoyment to the philosophical exploration.

Quick quotes

    Thomas Hobbes's essay on the social contract is both a founding text of western thought and a masterpiece of wit and imagination.

    It remains a profound exploration of the social contract and human nature.

    The book's enduring relevance lies in its timeless insights into power and society.

Reddit - r/books · 2013-01-01
mixed 3.50

The book is considered one of the most brilliant works ever written, though some parts may feel dull to modern readers. It offers a unique perspective on statecraft and human nature.

A Reddit user shares their experience with Leviathan, acknowledging its brilliance but noting that some sections can be challenging for contemporary readers. They appreciate the book's profound insights into statecraft and human nature, which are still relevant today. However, they find certain parts less engaging, likely due to the historical context and language used. Despite this, they recognize the book's significance and the depth of Hobbes' philosophical system.

Quick quotes

    Leviathan is simply one of the most brilliant books ever written.

    A ton of it is kind of dull for us modern folks.

    It's an incredible philosophical system that continues to resonate.

Appears in Lists