Hobbes
What is Hobbes's view of the state of nature?
A condition of war of “every man against every man". in other words, it's a civil war
What is “fortuna,” and how should a prince handle it?
A man may become prince through either ingenuity (skill) or fortune. Fortune plays a huge role in whether a prince is successful. a prince must master or adapt to it through virtu.
it is better for the prince to be feared than loved.
What is Aristotle's view of human nature?
Aristotle sees humans as political animals
What is plato's view of the origin of the state/ why it arises?
Essentially, to meet human needs that individuals cannot fulfill alone. people join together for mutual benefit
What are some features of the guardian class?
Spirited, brave, fearless, educated, and philosophical.
What is Hobbes view of justice?
in the state of nature, there is no such thing as
justice or injustice because there is no common power over men
What is Machiavelli's view of human nature?
they are easily convinced, yet
skeptical and fickle, as well as fearful
What is the purpose or function of the state according to Aristotle?
To promote the good life and human flourishing (eudaimonia)
What is plato's noble lie?
Essentially, Plato says that the rulers (the philosopher-kings) should tell the citizens a myth:
People’s metal determines their natural role in society.
Gold for rulers (those best suited to govern)
Silver for auxiliaries or soldiers (those best suited to defend and enforce)
Bronze or iron for producers (farmers, craftsmen, workers)
What are some features of the modern period?
- Secularization and an increased
willingness to challenge
traditional sources of authority
(particularly religion)
– Idealism replaced by realism
– Emergence of scientific method
and corresponding advances
– The “subjective turn” and
increased focus on the individual
What is the first law of nature?
The first rule is “that every man, ought to endeavor peace, as far as he has hope of obtaining it.
what is the definition of political realism?
Politics is driven by self-interest, power, and the realities of human nature, not necessarily by virtue, morality, or justice.
Why does Aristotle believe we need the middle class?
It stabilizes society and prevents conflict between the rich and poor. We can reach a golden mean.
What are the 3 parts of the soul and their corresponding parts of the state?
Reason (rational part), Emotion (spirited part)and Desire (appetitive part).
Who argues that, "justice is simply the interest of the stronger?"
Thrasymachus
What is the social contract theory and why is this important in the state of nature?
Essentially, people only willingly give up rights if they obtain some good to themselves. But we only gain this good when others promise to give up the same right.
contracts are meaningless in the state of nature,
since no party can be assured the other party will
keep his word
Name characteristics the prince needs
a prince who wishes to
maintain his position to learn how not to be good, not too compassionate, manipulative, shrewdness, know how to fight. Appear to have virtue, but do not practice virtue all the time.
What are the virtues that Aristotle believes help make a good leader?
Virtuous, practical wisdom, courage, temperance.
What makes Plato’s ideal ruler different from Machiavelli’s ideal prince?
Plato’s ruler is guided by wisdom and virtue; Machiavelli’s prince by effectiveness and power maintenance.
How does Plato’s definition of justice differ from Hobbes’?
Plato: harmony between parts of the soul/state; Hobbes: keeping the social contract upheld
Hobbes compared the state to what kind of entity?
An “artificial man,” the Leviathan.
What are some problems the price faces?
Gaining Power (How to Come to Power),Maintaining Power, and Fortuna.
What are the good and bad forms of government according to Aristotle?
Monarchy, Aristocracy, Polity (good); Tyranny, Oligarchy, Democracy (bad/corrupted forms).
Explain the Allegory of the cave and the meaning behind it.
people who live chained inside a dark cave, only able to see shadows on the wall. They believe those shadows are reality because they’ve never seen anything else. When they leave, their perception is altered. The cave represents ignorance, the shadows represent false beliefs, and the journey out of the cave represents gaining knowledge and enlightenment through philosophy.
What are the 4 qualities of the classes/city?
Wisdom (associated with philosophy kings), courage (associated with auxiliaries), temperance + justice (artisans +tradesmen)