What is the long term significance of Thomas Hobbes?

Question

Just wondering why he's important. Why do we still mention him in political discussions? Why is he still important today? Do we still agree with what he wrote in the Leviathan?

Answer 1

I think Hobbes is still important today, although most people would probably (mostly) disagree with what he thought.
The reason he is so important is because he was one of the first modern thinkers. He moved away from the idea of natural order that was the backbone of classical philosophy and laid the groundwork for modern liberalism. For example, John Locke, whose writing were influential to the American Revolution, wrote his treatises in response to Hobbes. Many other philosophers who might seem more relevant to us wrote as a direct result of Hobbes' ideas.

Answer 2

Although Hobbes is today best remembered for his work on political philosophy, he contributed to a diverse array of fields, including history, geometry, theology, ethics, general philosophy and what would now be called political science. Additionally, Hobbes's account of human nature as self-interested cooperation has proved to be an enduring theory in the field of philosophical anthropology.

Answer 3

it's a western thing, i think he will be forgotten in long term. he is considered to be very cold and realistic just like a natural scientist away from moral dogmas.