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2024-04-25 00:50:42

Thomas Hobbes

English philosopher known for Leviathan and social contract theory
English philosopher known for Leviathan and social contract theory
Thomas Hobbes, a key figure in modern political philosophy, advocated for governance by an absolute sovereign to address societal conflicts. His works, including Leviathan and De Cive, shaped the understanding of political structure and human nature.
15
Education of Thomas Hobbes
At the age of 15, Thomas Hobbes attended Magdalen Hall in the University of Oxford, where he pursued a traditional arts degree and developed an interest in maps.
1398
Hobbes's Materialism
Hobbes adopted a strongly materialist metaphysics, emphasizing the importance of physical realities over metaphysical categories in his moral and political ideas.
1588-04-05
Birth of Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes, the English philosopher, was born on April 5, 1588. He is best known for his work Leviathan, where he expressed his pessimistic view of human nature and the need for a strong political authority.
1602
Thomas Hobbes leaves Malmesbury to study at Oxford
In 1602, Thomas Hobbes left Malmesbury to pursue his studies at Magdalene Hall, Oxford. His education was financially supported by his uncle, Francis Hobbes, who worked as a glover.
1603
Hobbes enters Magdalen Hall, Oxford
In 1603, Hobbes entered Magdalen Hall, Oxford, where he was financially supported by his uncle Francis. He found that his opinions differed from the teachings dominated by Aristotle at the time.
1604
Thomas Hobbes leaves Malmesbury
In 1604, Thomas Hobbes left Malmesbury after a dispute with another clergyman, Richard Jeane, escalated to a physical fight in a churchyard. Hobbes struck Jeane and had to flee as a result.
1608-02
Thomas Hobbes graduates from Oxford and starts working for the Cavendish family
In February 1608, Thomas Hobbes completed his studies at Oxford and began working for the Cavendish family. Initially employed as a tutor to William Cavendish, he later continued to serve the family for most of his life.
1610
Travels to Europe with William Cavendish
In 1610, Thomas Hobbes accompanied William Cavendish on a journey to Europe, where they visited Germany, France, and Italy. This experience exposed Hobbes to different cultures and ideas.
1612
Hobbes meets Fulgenzio Micanzio and Paolo Sarpi
While in Venice, Thomas Hobbes met Fulgenzio Micanzio, a close associate of Paolo Sarpi. Sarpi had written against the papacy's claim to temporal power in response to the Interdict of Pope Paul V. Both men were invited to England by James I in 1612.
1615
Hobbes translates letters of Micanzio and Sarpi
Upon returning to England in 1615, Thomas Hobbes maintained correspondence with Fulgenzio Micanzio and Paolo Sarpi. He translated the latter's letters from Italian, which were shared among William Cavendish's circle.
1620
Hobbes works as a secretary to Francis Bacon
Around 1620, Thomas Hobbes worked for a period of time as a secretary to the renowned philosopher and statesman Francis Bacon.
1626
Hobbes loses his secretarial post
In 1626, after the death of William Cavendish, Hobbes lost his secretarial post as the Cavendish family no longer required his services.
1628
Translation of Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War
In 1628, Hobbes completed the first English translation of Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War from a Greek manuscript, showcasing his scholarly efforts in studying classic Greek and Latin authors.
1629
Translation of Thucydides
In 1629, Hobbes published a brilliant translation of the Greek writer Thucydides. This work showcased his linguistic skills and intellectual capabilities.
1631
Encountering mathematics
At the age of forty, Hobbes became fascinated by mathematics after encountering Euclid's Elements in a gentleman's library.
1636-02-05
Influence of Galileo on Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes traveled to Italy to meet with Galileo, the renowned scientist. Galileo's influence led Hobbes to develop his social philosophy based on principles of geometry and natural science.
1637
Hobbes returns home from Paris
In 1637, Hobbes returned to a country filled with discontent, which disrupted his philosophical plans. This event marked a significant moment in Hobbes's life as it influenced his subsequent works.
1640-03-01
Circulation of Elements of Law Manuscript
Thomas Hobbes circulated his manuscript 'Elements of Law,' advocating for absolute sovereignty, among members of parliament. This action coincided with the dissolution of parliament by the King and the impeachment of Thomas Wentworth by the Long Parliament.
1641-11
Completion of De Cive
In November 1641, Thomas Hobbes finished the third section of his work, De Cive. Initially circulated privately, it was well received and contained arguments later repeated in Leviathan.
1642
De Cive published
De Cive, also known as On the Citizen, was published in 1642. It offers a clear and concise statement of Hobbes's moral and political philosophy, sharing similarities with his earlier work, The Elements of Law.
1644
Publication of Tractatus opticus
In 1644, Thomas Hobbes published a short treatise on optics called Tractatus opticus, which was included in a collection of scientific tracts. This publication added to his reputation in philosophical circles.
1645
Refereeing Controversy between John Pell and Longomontanus
In 1645, Thomas Hobbes, along with Descartes and others, was chosen to referee the controversy between John Pell and Longomontanus over the problem of squaring the circle. This reflected his standing in academic and mathematical circles.
1646-05-01
Publication of De Cive
In 1646, the work 'De Cive' was published, marking the beginning of a trilogy on body, man, and citizen by the author.
1647
Near-fatal illness of Thomas Hobbes
In 1647, Thomas Hobbes suffered a severe illness that left him disabled for six months, interrupting his work on Leviathan. After recovering, he continued his literary tasks and completed Leviathan by 1650.
1650
Hobbes promoting a mechanistic scientific approach
Hobbes was seen as promoting a mechanistic scientific approach that emphasized materialism and the use of language and mathematics to analyze the world. He believed that a complete mechanistic understanding of the world could be achieved through this approach.
1651-06-01
Tutoring Charles II in Mathematics
In June 1651, Thomas Hobbes became a tutor in mathematics to the future Charles II while both were exiled in Paris.
1652
Elected a Student of Christ Church, Oxford
In 1652, Thomas Hobbes was elected as a student of Christ Church, Oxford.
1654
Publication of Of Libertie and Necessitie, a Treatise
In 1654, Thomas Hobbes published a treatise titled Of Libertie and Necessitie, which delved into the concepts of liberty and necessity.
1655
De Corpore published
In 1655, Hobbes published De Corpore, a work focusing on metaphysical questions. It showcases his diverse intellectual interests beyond morality and politics.
1656
Publication of The Questions concerning Liberty, Necessity and Chance
In 1656, Thomas Hobbes published The Questions concerning Liberty, Necessity and Chance, where he strongly responded to a bishop, presenting one of the earliest clear explanations of determinism in psychology.
1658
Publication of De Homine by Thomas Hobbes
In 1658, the third part of Thomas Hobbes' trilogy of philosophy, De Homine, was published. This work, along with De Corpore and De Cive, formed a comprehensive exploration of various philosophical concepts. De Homine further contributed to Hobbes' materialistic approach to philosophy.
1660
Pension from Charles II
In 1660, Charles II, who was Hobbes' former pupil, returned to England as the king and granted Hobbes a pension. This support from the monarch provided financial stability for Hobbes.
1662
Answer to Bishop Bramhall by Hobbes
In his Answer to Bishop Bramhall in 1662, Hobbes describes God as a 'corporeal spirit', suggesting a shift in his perspective on the nature of God.
1665-08-01
Publication of De Corpore
In August 1665, 'De Corpore' was published, a significant work in the trilogy focusing on body, man, and citizen by Thomas Hobbes.
1666-10-17
House of Commons introduces bill against atheism and profaneness
In 1666, the House of Commons introduced a bill targeting atheism and profaneness. The committee empowered to receive information on such topics specifically mentioned Mr. Hobbes's book Leviathan, causing him to burn compromising papers and examine the law of heresy.
1668
Appendix to the 1668 Latin edition of Leviathan
In the appendix to the 1668 Latin edition of Leviathan, Hobbes presents a different view on the concept of God compared to his earlier work.
1670
Hobbes's Mathematical Achievements
Hobbes defended his mathematical works until the end of his life, claiming to have corrected principles of geometry and solved complex problems that had eluded other great geometers. He listed several achievements, such as exhibiting a line equal to the arc of a circle and finding the centre of gravity of various shapes.
1672
Autobiography in Latin verse
In 1672, Thomas Hobbes wrote an autobiography in Latin verse. This was one of his final works before his passing in 1679.
1674
Work on Squaring the Circle
Shortly before his death at the age of 91, Thomas Hobbes was working on a book about squaring the circle.
1675
Translation of Iliad and Odyssey
In 1675, Thomas Hobbes completed the translation of both the Iliad and the Odyssey into English rhymes. This work followed his earlier translation of four books of the Odyssey in 1673.
1679-12-04
Death of Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes passed away on 4 December 1679 at Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire, England. He was an influential figure in English philosophy and political theory, known for his work on social contract theory.
1682
Publication of Behemoth
Behemoth, written earlier but published in 1682, provides Hobbes's account of England's Civil Wars. It is an important work shedding light on the historical events of the time.
1913
Inclusion of Thomas Hobbes in 'Great Jurists of the World'
Thomas Hobbes was included in the book 'Great Jurists of the World' edited by James E. G. de Montmorency in 1913, highlighting his significance in the field of law.
1925
Hobbes. Leben und Lehre
Ferdinand Tönnies' work from 1925 that explores the life and teachings of Thomas Hobbes.
1928
Thomas Hobbes' Mechanical Conception of Nature
A study on Thomas Hobbes' mechanical conception of nature published in Copenhagen by Levin & Munksgaard in 1928.
1929
Controversies between Wallis, Hobbes, and Barrow
Discussions and disagreements between mathematicians Wallis, Hobbes, and Barrow.
1936
The Political Philosophy of Hobbes; Its Basis and Its Genesis
Leo Strauss' work from 1936 that delves into the foundations and origins of Thomas Hobbes' political philosophy.
1952
Galileo, Hobbes, and the circle of perfection
Discussion on the relationship between Galileo, Hobbes, and the concept of the circle of perfection.
1957
The Political Philosophy of Hobbes: His Theory of Obligation
This book delves into the political philosophy of Thomas Hobbes, specifically focusing on his theory of obligation. It provides insights into Hobbes' views on political obligations and governance.
1958
Hobbes' theory of definition
Investigation of Thomas Hobbes' theory of definition, written in Polish.
1959
On the Basis of Hobbes's Political Philosophy
An essay by Leo Strauss from 1959 included in the book 'What Is Political Philosophy?' that discusses the basis of Thomas Hobbes' political philosophy.
1962
Leviathan's Influence on Religion
In 1962, the concept of Leviathan's influence on religion was discussed, suggesting that the Church should submit to the supreme civil authority. This idea challenged traditional religious beliefs and emphasized the importance of secular power.
1971
Publication of G C Robertson's book on Hobbes
In 1971, G C Robertson published a book on Thomas Hobbes in Edinburgh.
1973
Publication of 'Hobbes’s System of Ideas'
In 1973, J.W.N. Watkins published 'Hobbes’s System of Ideas' in London. The book delves into the philosophical ideas of Thomas Hobbes.
1974
Publication of Thomas Hobbes in his Time
In 1974, R Ross, H Schneider, and T Waldman edited a book called 'Thomas Hobbes in his Time' in Minneapolis.
1975
Publication of Press
The press was published in 1975.
1977
Leibniz and Hobbes on Arbitrary Truth
M.B. Bolton discussed the comparison between Leibniz and Hobbes regarding arbitrary truth in the Philosophy Research Archives.
1980
Conatus, Hobbes, and the Young Leibniz
Bernstein's study delves into the concept of conatus in relation to Hobbes and the early ideas of Leibniz, exploring their connections and influences.
1981
Hobbes’s Theory of Language, Speech, and Reasoning
An analysis of Thomas Hobbes's ideas on language, speech, and reasoning as presented in Part I of De Corpore.
1982
Publication of Hobbes Studies: a Bibliography
In 1982, W Sacksteder compiled a bibliography titled 'Hobbes Studies (1879-1979)' in Bowling Green, OH.
1985
Hume’s Treatise and Hobbes’s The Elements of Law
In 1985, Peter Russell analyzed the relationship between David Hume's 'Treatise' and Thomas Hobbes's 'The Elements of Law' in the 'Journal of the History of Ideas'. The article delves into the connections between the works of the two philosophers.
1986
Publication of Hobbes by T. Sorell
In 1986, Thomas Sorell published a book titled 'Hobbes', which delves into the life and philosophy of Thomas Hobbes. It provides insights into Hobbes's political and ethical theories.
1987
Mathematics and Philosophy
The relationship between mathematics and philosophy involving Wallis, Hobbes, Barrow, and Berkeley was explored in the Journal of the History of Ideas in 1987.
1988
Talaska's analysis of Hobbes's use of mathematical notions
Talaska in 1988 analyzed Hobbes's admiration for geometry and how he incorporated mathematical notions in his method.
1989
Publication of Leviathan and the Air-Pump
The book 'Leviathan and the Air-Pump: Hobbes, Boyle, and the Experimental Life' was published in 1989 by Steven Shapin and Simon Schaffer. It explores the debates between Thomas Hobbes and Robert Boyle regarding the nature of scientific experiments.
1990
Geometry and politics : mathematics in the thought of Thomas Hobbes
Exploration of the relationship between geometry, politics, and mathematics in the philosophy of Thomas Hobbes.
1991
Publication of 'Man and Citizen' by Thomas Hobbes & Gert, Bernard
The book 'Man and Citizen' authored by Thomas Hobbes and Bernard Gert was published in 1991. It delves into the philosophical ideas of Hobbes on man and society.
1992
Ideals as Interests in Hobbes’s Leviathan
This book explores the concept of ideals as interests in Thomas Hobbes' work Leviathan, emphasizing the power of mind over matter.
1993
Hobbes and mathematical method
Study on Thomas Hobbes' approach to mathematical method in the context of science.
1994
Discussion of Hobbes's Political Philosophy
Hobbes's philosophy, particularly his political views, was widely discussed and controversial among scholars. The focus of the discussions was mainly on his political theories.
1995
Leviathan and the Air-Pump
A work by Steven Shapin and Simon Schaffer published in 1995 that discusses the conflict between Thomas Hobbes and Robert Boyle on the nature of knowledge.
1996
Publication of 'Leviathan: Revised student edition' by Thomas Hobbes & Tuck, Richard
In 1996, a revised student edition of 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes and Richard Tuck was published. This edition aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Hobbes' political philosophy.
1997
Thomas Hobbes
A book by A. P. Martinich from 1997 that delves into the life and philosophy of Thomas Hobbes.
1999
Martinich's modern biography of Hobbes
Martinich's modern biography of Hobbes offers a detailed account of the philosopher's life, shedding light on both his political and non-political philosophies.
2001
The power of images : mathematics and metaphysics in Hobbes's optics
Study on the significance of images, mathematics, and metaphysics in Thomas Hobbes' optics.
2002
Discussion of Hobbes's Philosophy
Scholars engaged in discussions about Hobbes's philosophy, with a particular emphasis on his political ideas. His works sparked controversy and were widely read during this period.
2003
Thomas Hobbes in The Dictionary of Literary Biography
An entry by A. P. Martinich in The Dictionary of Literary Biography from 2003 that discusses Thomas Hobbes' life and works in the context of British rhetoricians and logicians.
2004
Sémantique et doctrine de la proposition
M. Pécharman's work on the semantics and doctrine of the proposition, questioning if Hobbes is reconcilable with the deterministic tradition.
2005
Martinich's book on Hobbes
Martinich's book on Hobbes delves into his non-political philosophy, providing a comprehensive analysis beyond his political theories.
2007
Taming the Leviathan: The Reception of the Political and Religious Ideas of Thomas Hobbes in England 1640–1700
A book by Jon Parkin published in 2007 that explores the reception of Thomas Hobbes' political and religious ideas in England between 1640 and 1700.
2008
Hobbes and Republican Liberty
Quentin Skinner's book from 2008 that explores the concept of republican liberty in the context of Thomas Hobbes' philosophy.
2009
The Elements of Representation in Hobbes
Monica Brito Vieira's work from 2009 that explores the concept of representation in the context of Thomas Hobbes' philosophy.
2011
Historical Dictionary of Hobbes's Philosophy
A dictionary providing historical context to Hobbes's philosophy published in Lanham by Scarecrow Press in 2011.
2012
Hobbes's Challenge
In 2012, Patricia Springborg presented 'Hobbes's Challenge' which explores the intellectual challenges posed by Thomas Hobbes. It sheds light on the impact of Hobbes's ideas on political philosophy.
2014
La palabra y la espada: a vueltas con Hobbes
Fabio Vélez's work from 2014 that engages with Thomas Hobbes' ideas on language and power.
2015
The Absence of Reference in Hobbes’ Philosophy of Language
The article by Abizadeh explores the concept of reference in Hobbes' philosophy of language, highlighting the absence of direct reference in his work.
2017
Publication of 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes & Brooke, Christopher
The book 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes and Christopher Brooke was published in 2017. It explores the enduring relevance of Hobbes' ideas on governance and society.
2019
Adams's argument on Hobbes's method of synthetic demonstration
Adams in 2019 argues that Hobbes employed a method of synthetic demonstration in both geometry and political philosophy.
2020
Publication of 'Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes'
In 2020, the book 'Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes' was published. This work sheds light on Hobbes' seminal text and its impact on political thought.
2023-11-27
Publication of Thomas Hobbes
The World History Encyclopedia discusses the life, works, and ideas of Thomas Hobbes, a prominent philosopher. The organization provides information on his influential writings such as Leviathan.
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Thomas Hobbes

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Thomas Hobbes

English philosopher known for Leviathan and social contract theory
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