A condição natural da humanidade em Hobbes, no Leviatã: análise do papel das paixões e da razão e da possibilidade de pactos na condição de simples natureza

Abstract

This paper, in general, aims to analyze the concept of the natural condition of humankind developed by Hobbes and its entire development in the work Leviathan, highlighting the main passages that deal with this theme and comparing them with chapter XIII of the aforementioned work, which deals specifically with this subject. We also seek to investigate the relationship between passions and reason in the state of nature and their role in human behavior. Finally, our third objective is to analyze the possibility of establishing covenants in the natural condition. Thomas Hobbes, in Leviathan, brings to light some circumstances present in the natural condition of humanity. They are: absence of common power, equality of capabilities and expectations, scarcity of resources, causes of discord and rights over all things. According to the author, due to these natural conditions, the potential conflict is established — this is what Hobbes calls the war of all against all. Hobbes sometimes credits the belligerent behavior of man in the natural state to the passions, and sometimes attributes this behavior to the action of reason. Therefore, it is apparently not clear which of these concepts plays a greater role in this widespread barbarity. In fact, Hobbes in some passages demonstrates that due to the condition of widespread conflict, it is necessary for men in the condition of simple nature to establish alliances and respect their covenants instituted by fear. However, in other passages the author states that in the natural condition it is not possible to make contracts. In this sense, the present work aims to analyze these tensions posed in the Hobbesian natural state within the work Leviathan.