- Published: January 10, 2022
- Updated: January 10, 2022
- University / College: University of California, Irvine
- Level: Doctor of Philosophy
- Language: English
- Downloads: 43
Hobbes Leviathan and Rousseaus Dis on the Origin and the Foundations of Inequality among Men Hobbes view man as anobject in motion, according to him, men are materialistic. Therefore, the only thing that occupies most of their mind is how and where to acquire wealth (Hobbes 16). On the other hand, Rousseau describes man to be just like any other animal. According to him, men are only interested in their self-preservation. The author argues that the only material things that a man need is sleep, a woman and food. In connection, to this he believe that Hobbes was looking at a man from a very narrow point of view. This is because, a man has values because he can take care of himself (Rousseau 9).
Hobbes view on state of nature was different from that of Rousseau in that he believed that all men are naturally equal. Therefore, there is no physical difference in man that can cause in equality (Hobbes 15). However, because of this equality, men have continually fought one another, as they struggle to control the available resources. While, Rousseau sees the nature as being peaceful and free of vice. He argues that men did not each other to come to serious wars. In connection to this, people are neither bad nor good (Rousseau 7).
In conclusion, Rousseau’s criticise Hobbes because he believes, Hobbes view on state of nature is like taking a man out of town, then judging him. Therefore he believed that, the best way of looking at the state of nature is by considering all other factors (Rousseau 13).
References
Hobbes, Thomas. Levathian. New York, NY: Yale University, 2010. Print.
Rousseau, Jean J. Discourse on the Origin and the Foundations of Inequality among Men. Holland: Marc Michel-Rey, 1755. Print.
