Leviathan

The work examines human nature, beginning with sense, imagination, passion, and reason, then develops a political theory that explains how fear of violent death and competition drive individuals to seek peace. It describes the social contract by which people collectively authorize a sovereign to wield decisive power and adjudicate laws, portraying the commonwealth as an artificial person whose unity depends on undivided authority. It analyzes forms of government, the duties and limits of magistrates, the relation of civil and ecclesiastical power, natural law and liberty, and practical measures intended to secure order and preserve society.