Leviathan (Books I and II)
Thomas Hobbes
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This podcast presents an audio recording of Leviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, the 1651 work by philosopher Thomas Hobbes. The book examines the structure of society and argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign, drawing on the turmoil of the English Civil War. Hobbes contends that strong central government is necessary to avoid a state of nature and the war of all against all. He also discusses circumstances under which the social contract might dissolve. The summary is drawn from Wikipedia.
Episodes
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Magnificent Ambersons (Growth Trilogy Vol 2) Version 2-Booth Tarkington 11.08.2026 9h 19mLeviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, commonly called Leviathan, is a book written in 1651 by Thomas Hobbes. It is titled after the biblical Leviathan. The book concerns the structure of society (as represented figuratively by the frontispiece, showing the state giant made up of individuals), as is evidenced by the full title. In the book, Thomas Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign. Influenced by the English Civil War, Hobbes wrote that chaos or civil war - situations identified with a state of nature and the famous motto Bellum omnium contra omnes ("the war of all against all") - could only be averted by strong central government. He thus denied any right of rebellion toward the social contract. However, Hobbes did discuss the possible dissolution of the State. Since the social contract was made to institute a state that would provide for the "peace and defense" of the people, the contract would become void as soon as the government no longer protected its citizens. By virtue of this fact, man would automatically return to the state of nature until a new contract is made. Summary from Wikipedia. -
Outa Karel’s Stories South African Folk-Lore Tales-Sanni Metelerkamp 10.08.2026 3h 8mLeviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, commonly called Leviathan, is a book written in 1651 by Thomas Hobbes. It is titled after the biblical Leviathan. The book concerns the structure of society (as represented figuratively by the frontispiece, showing the state giant made up of individuals), as is evidenced by the full title. In the book, Thomas Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign. Influenced by the English Civil War, Hobbes wrote that chaos or civil war - situations identified with a state of nature and the famous motto Bellum omnium contra omnes ("the war of all against all") - could only be averted by strong central government. He thus denied any right of rebellion toward the social contract. However, Hobbes did discuss the possible dissolution of the State. Since the social contract was made to institute a state that would provide for the "peace and defense" of the people, the contract would become void as soon as the government no longer protected its citizens. By virtue of this fact, man would automatically return to the state of nature until a new contract is made. Summary from Wikipedia. -
Early explorations in New South Wales A collection-Richard Hind Cambage, John Price 10.08.2026 2h 1mLeviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, commonly called Leviathan, is a book written in 1651 by Thomas Hobbes. It is titled after the biblical Leviathan. The book concerns the structure of society (as represented figuratively by the frontispiece, showing the state giant made up of individuals), as is evidenced by the full title. In the book, Thomas Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign. Influenced by the English Civil War, Hobbes wrote that chaos or civil war - situations identified with a state of nature and the famous motto Bellum omnium contra omnes ("the war of all against all") - could only be averted by strong central government. He thus denied any right of rebellion toward the social contract. However, Hobbes did discuss the possible dissolution of the State. Since the social contract was made to institute a state that would provide for the "peace and defense" of the people, the contract would become void as soon as the government no longer protected its citizens. By virtue of this fact, man would automatically return to the state of nature until a new contract is made. Summary from Wikipedia. -
My Confession-Leo Tolstoy 08.08.2026 2h 41m"My Confession" by Leo Tolstoy is a deeply introspective work where the renowned author grapples with his spiritual crisis and the search for meaning in life. Through his candid reflections, Tolstoy examines the nature of faith, the purpose of existence, and the profound questions that challenge humanity. This exploration of inner turmoil and the quest for truth remains relevant today, as individuals continue to seek understanding in a complex world. Tolstoy's raw honesty and philosophical insights invite listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the essence of a fulfilling life, making this audiobook a timeless companion for anyone on a journey of self-discovery. -
Astrophel and Stella - Sir Philip Sidney 01.08.2026 1h 40mAstrophel and Stella by Sir Philip Sidney is a poignant exploration of love, desire, and the complexities of the human heart. Through a series of sonnets, Sidney captures the tumultuous emotions of a lover grappling with passion and longing, making it a timeless reflection on the nature of romance and the struggles that accompany it. The themes of unrequited love and the quest for understanding in relationships resonate deeply, reminding listeners of the universal challenges faced in matters of the heart. This enduring work not only showcases Sidney's mastery of poetic form but also invites contemplation on the intricacies of love that remain relevant today. -
Leviathan Books I and II - Thomas Hobbes - Part 2 21.05.2026 1h 53mLeviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, commonly called Leviathan, is a book written in 1651 by Thomas Hobbes. It is titled after the biblical Leviathan. The book concerns the structure of society (as represented figuratively by the frontispiece, showing the state giant made up of individuals), as is evidenced by the full title. In the book, Thomas Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign. Influenced by the English Civil War, Hobbes wrote that chaos or civil war - situations identified with a state of nature and the famous motto Bellum omnium contra omnes ("the war of all against all") - could only be averted by strong central government. He thus denied any right of rebellion toward the social contract. However, Hobbes did discuss the possible dissolution of the State. Since the social contract was made to institute a state that would provide for the "peace and defense" of the people, the contract would become void as soon as the government no longer protected its citizens. By virtue of this fact, man would automatically return to the state of nature until a new contract is made. Summary from Wikipedia. -
Leviathan Books I and II - Thomas Hobbes - Part 1 20.05.2026 9h 39mLeviathan, or The Matter, Forme and Power of a Common Wealth Ecclesiasticall and Civil, commonly called Leviathan, is a book written in 1651 by Thomas Hobbes. It is titled after the biblical Leviathan. The book concerns the structure of society (as represented figuratively by the frontispiece, showing the state giant made up of individuals), as is evidenced by the full title. In the book, Thomas Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by a sovereign. Influenced by the English Civil War, Hobbes wrote that chaos or civil war - situations identified with a state of nature and the famous motto Bellum omnium contra omnes ("the war of all against all") - could only be averted by strong central government. He thus denied any right of rebellion toward the social contract. However, Hobbes did discuss the possible dissolution of the State. Since the social contract was made to institute a state that would provide for the "peace and defense" of the people, the contract would become void as soon as the government no longer protected its citizens. By virtue of this fact, man would automatically return to the state of nature until a new contract is made. Summary from Wikipedia.
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