What was Hobbes' perspective on power?

Hobbes focused on one of the most common understandings of power. In the book Leviathan he discussed that "society is the sum of individuals who carry and constitute power". Power, then, 'flows' from society to the individual, not, for instance, between individuals. The Souvereign, an important concept in Hobbes’ perspective, has the ultimate power; the Souvereign holds a monopoly over power. In other words, only the Souvereign has power. And he can exercise this power via violence and coercion. 

DH
Answered by Dyi H. Sociology tutor

7118 Views

See similar Sociology A Level tutors

Related Sociology A Level answers

All answers ▸

outline 2 factors that influence educational attainment


What are the main distinguishing features of Lukes' 3 faces of power?


how to have the best structure when answering sociology questions in exam papers?


Assess explanations of the types and patterns of state crime


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning