hobbes in calvin and hobbes for one

Sun, 03 May 2026 09:27:56 +0000

Understanding Hobbes and Calvin: A Comparative Perspective in Political Philosophy When exploring foundational thinkers in political philosophy, few names resonate as powerfully as Thomas Hobbes and John Calvin—though fundamentally distinct, their ideas intersect in surprising ways, particularly regarding authority, human nature, and social order. This article examines Hobbes and Calvin—two pillars of 17th-century thought—highlighting how Calvin’s theology shaped early modern political ideas, and how Hobbes’ radical theories emerged partly in critique of theological-political frameworks, including Calvinism. Though the phrase “Calvin and Hobbes for one” evokes a synthesis of thought, this piece reflects on the intellectual resonance between these figures, especially in their treatment of power, sovereignty, and human will. --- ### Who Is Thomas Hobbes?