Hobbes's Kingdom of Light: A Study of the Foundations of Modern Political Philosophy

Devin Stauffer argues that Hobbes was a critical of the classical tradition and established a new science of morality and politics. He explored the twists and turns of Hobbess arguments in his famous Leviathan and throughout his corpus, revealing the details of his critique of an older outlook and the complexity of his war against the "Kingdom of Darkness". Stauffer's book helps to prepare the way for the later emergence of modern liberalism and modern secularism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2021
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

In his book, Devin Stauffer delves into the critical aspects of Hobbess philosophy, particularly his critique of the classical tradition. Stauffer argues that Hobbes was not just a political philosopher but also a philosopher of religion and morality. He challenges the traditional view of Hobbes as a cold and calculating rationalist, highlighting his deep concern for human nature and the potential for conflict.

Stauffer explores Hobbess arguments in his famous work, Leviathan, and throughout his corpus. He shows how Hobbes sought to establish a new science of morality and politics, based on a fundamental understanding of human nature and the nature of government. Hobbess vision was rooted in classical philosophy and Christian theology, but he rejected the traditional view that human beings are fundamentally selfish and rational. Instead, he argued that human beings are social creatures who are motivated by fear and self-interest, but who can also be guided by reason and virtue.

Stauffer also describes the key features of the "Kingdom of Light" that Hobbes sought to establish. This new outlook was based on the idea of a social contract between the people and their government, which was designed to protect individual rights and promote peace and prosperity. Hobbess vision was highly influential in the development of modern liberalism and modern secularism, and his ideas continue to be debated and studied by scholars today.

In conclusion, Devin Stauffer's book, Hobbess Kingdom of Light, is a valuable contribution to the study of Hobbess philosophy. By exploring the critical aspects of his thought, Stauffer reveals the complexity of Hobbess critique of the classical tradition and his vision for a new science of morality and politics. Hobbess ideas continue to be relevant and important today, and his work helps to prepare the way for the later emergence of modern liberalism and modern secularism.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226760124