Thomas Hobbes

Thomas Hobbes, born in 1588 in Westport, England, experienced a tumultuous early life, shaped by his father's abrupt departure and the care of a wealthy uncle. He was educated at Oxford and became a tutor to the influential Cavendish family, which allowed him to travel and engage with leading intellectuals of his time.Hobbes' career was deeply influenced by the political turmoil of the English Civil War. His most famous work, Leviathan, reflects his belief in the necessity of a strong sovereign to prevent societal collapse, an idea developed during his time in Paris and through his exposure to contemporary thinkers like Galileo.Throughout his life, Hobbes contributed to diverse fields, including philosophy, history, and even optics. His controversial ideas on governance and human nature sparked debates, yet they continue to shape political thought to this day​.