O estado de natureza de Thomas Hobbes | Filosofia Moderna | História da Filosofia

Summary

This video script delves into Thomas Hobbes' philosophy, particularly his view of the 'state of nature.' Hobbes argues that in the absence of government, individuals are driven by competition, distrust, and the pursuit of glory, leading to conflict. The concept of morality does not exist in this state; it only comes into play once society is established. The script also incorporates an analysis of Piero di Cosimo's artwork, drawing parallels between Hobbes' views and the animalistic nature of humans in the state of nature, where humans are depicted as equally savage as animals in their pursuit of survival.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hobbes' state of nature is a theoretical condition where there is no government, leading to a constant state of fear and competition.
• 😀 In the state of nature, humans are equal in terms of their physical abilities, which leads to equality in the ability to pursue their desires.
• 😀 The equality in capacity leads to the notion that everyone has the same right to pursue their own goals, which can result in conflicts when desires overlap.
• 😀 When two individuals desire the same thing, they become enemies, as there is no clear ownership or distinction in the state of nature.
• 😀 Hobbes identifies three main causes of conflict in the state of nature: competition, distrust, and glory.
• 😀 Competition arises because resources are not owned by anyone, leading people to compete for the same goods or benefits.
• 😀 Distrust leads to hostilities, as individuals are uncertain when others may take what they have, creating a constant fear of loss.
• 😀 Glory or the desire for recognition often leads individuals to boast, adding another layer of competition and conflict among people.
• 😀 Hobbes' concept of the 'state of war' is not necessarily physical violence but a state of tension and constant fear of potential violence.
• 😀 Hobbes' theory contrasts with Rousseau's, where Hobbes does not claim humans are inherently 'evil' but rather that moral concepts, such as good and bad, only arise in a structured society.
• 😀 A comparison with art, like Piero di Cosimo's painting 'A Scene of Hunting,' helps visualize Hobbes' concept, where humans and animals are portrayed on equal terms to symbolize the animalistic nature of humans in the state of nature.

Q & A

What does Hobbes mean by the 'state of nature'?

The 'state of nature' is a philosophical concept introduced by Hobbes, where humans exist without government or social structure. In this state, people are equal in terms of their capabilities, and there is no authority to resolve conflicts, leading to a state of constant fear and competition.

How does Hobbes describe the equality of humans in the state of nature?

Hobbes argues that in the state of nature, humans are equal in terms of their basic abilities, such as physical strength and reasoning capacity. While natural inequalities may exist, people are more or less equal in their potential to achieve their desires.

What does Hobbes mean by the 'war of all against all'?

The 'war of all against all' refers to a condition where, in the absence of laws or government, individuals are in constant conflict over resources and survival. Hobbes does not mean literal physical violence all the time, but a perpetual state of distrust and threat of violence.

What are the three main causes of discord in Hobbes' state of nature?

Hobbes identifies three primary causes of conflict in the state of nature: competition (for resources), distrust (the fear of others taking what one has), and glory (the desire for recognition and esteem).

How does Hobbes explain human behavior in relation to competition?

Hobbes explains that humans are competitive by nature because they desire the same things, and these desires are often in conflict. For example, if two people want the same resource (like a water source), they become rivals for it.

What role does distrust play in the state of nature according to Hobbes?

Distrust is a central aspect of the state of nature. Hobbes argues that since there is no overarching authority to guarantee safety, people are always suspicious of others and fear that their possessions or lives could be taken away at any time.

How does the desire for glory contribute to conflict in Hobbes' philosophy?

The desire for glory is another driving force behind conflict. Hobbes argues that humans have a deep need for recognition and status, which can lead to rivalries, boasting, and confrontations, especially when people feel that their status is threatened.

What does Hobbes mean by a 'constant fear of violent death' in the state of nature?

Hobbes suggests that in the state of nature, individuals live in constant fear of violent death because there is no social contract or authority to protect them. This fear makes life insecure and dangerous, as anyone could potentially harm or kill another.

How does Hobbes' view of the state of nature contrast with Rousseau's view?

Hobbes and Rousseau have opposing views on human nature. Hobbes argues that humans are naturally competitive, distrustful, and driven by self-interest, leading to the 'war of all against all.' Rousseau, on the other hand, believes that humans are inherently good in their natural state and that society corrupts them.

How is the concept of the state of nature illustrated in the painting 'Scene of a Hunt' by Piero di Cosimo?

The painting 'Scene of a Hunt' by Piero di Cosimo depicts humans and animals on equal footing, symbolizing the primal, animalistic nature of humans in the state of nature. The figures of men and animals are shown competing for the same resources, reflecting Hobbes' idea of human nature in the absence of civilization.