Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes - Classic Political Philosophy

In this review of Leviathan, the reviewer finds a foundational work for readers interested in the origins of modern political thought; it is best for students, scholars, and informed general readers who want a direct encounter with 17th-century social contract theory. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its historical and intellectual importance: Thomas Hobbes sets out a comprehensive argument about the structure of society and the necessity of sovereign authority that continues to influence political theory. This edition from Theophania Publishing is presented as a straightforward reissue for study and reference.

Key Features

• Historical significance: The book presents one of the earliest statements of social contract theory, making it essential for understanding modern political philosophy.
• Complete work: Leviathan covers both ecclesiastical and civil authority in one volume, giving readers a unified account of Hobbes's argument about sovereignty and society.
• Readable edition: This reissue from Theophania Publishing is offered as a practical copy for study, useful for readers who need access to the original text without specialized editorial apparatus.
• Historical context: Published originally in 1651, the work includes period details such as the original publisher attribution to Andrew Crooke and shows the text's early reception history.
• Reference value: Its inclusion in categories like Political Science and History & Theory makes this edition a useful reference for coursework and academic citation.

Who It's For

Leviathan is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students in political science, historians of political thought, and readers who want primary texts rather than modern summaries. It suits anyone preparing for courses on government, social contract theory, or early modern philosophy who needs to read Hobbes's original arguments in full.

Readers looking for a modern commentary, a condensed guide, or a heavily annotated scholarly edition may prefer to look elsewhere; this Theophania Publishing edition appears intended as a reprint for access rather than as a critical edition with extensive notes or contemporary interpretation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Essential primary text for understanding the development of social contract theory and the concept of sovereign power.
• Collects Hobbes's treatment of both ecclesiastical and civil authority in a single volume, useful for comprehensive study.
• Accessible reissue that makes the 1651 text available to students and general readers without specialized sourcing.

Cons

• Not a modern annotated edition, so readers may need supplementary commentary to navigate archaic language and historical references.

Specifications

Title	Leviathan
Author	Thomas Hobbes
Publisher (this edition)	Theophania Publishing
Original publication year	1651
Original publisher	Andrew Crooke
Subject categories	Political Science; History & Theory; Politics & Government

Our Verdict

Leviathan remains a must-read primary source for anyone studying the origins of modern political theory; this reprint offers practical access to Hobbes's full argument and represents good value for students and researchers who need the original text, though those seeking annotated guidance should pair it with a contemporary commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the original 1651 text?
Yes, the work originates from 1651 and this edition presents Hobbes's classic text, credited to its original publisher Andrew Crooke in the historical record.

Who published this edition?
This listing is for a copy from Theophania Publishing, offered as a reprint for readers and researchers.

Is this edition annotated?
This reissue appears to be a straightforward presentation of the text rather than a heavily annotated scholarly edition; readers may wish to consult secondary sources for detailed commentary.