The English works of Thomas Hobbes of Malmesbury, Volume 03 (of 11) — Thomas Hobbes — John Shaqi
The English works of Thomas Hobbes of Malmesbury, Volume 03 (of 11)
Thomas Hobbes · en
Thirdly, that these creatures, having not, as man, the use of reason, do
not see, nor think they see any fault, in the administration of their
common business; whereas amongst men, there are very many, that think
themselves wiser, and abler to govern the public, better than the rest;
and these strive to reform and innovate, one this way, another that way;
and thereby bring it into distraction and civil war.
Fourthly, that these creatures, though they have some use of voice, in
making known to one another their desires, and other affections; yet
they want that art of words, by which some men can represent to others,
that which is good, in the likeness of evil; and evil, in the likeness
of good; and augment, or diminish the apparent greatness of good and
evil; discontenting men, and troubling their peace at their pleasure.
Fifthly, irrational creatures cannot distinguish between _injury_ and
_damage_; and therefore as long as they be at ease, they are not
offended with their fellows: whereas man is then most troublesome, when
he is most at ease: for then it is that he loves to shew his wisdom, and
control the actions of them that govern the commonwealth.
Lastly, the agreement of these creatures is natural; that of men, is by
covenant only, which is artificial: and therefore it is no wonder if
there be somewhat else required, besides covenant, to make their
agreement constant and lasting; which is a common power, to keep them in
awe, and to direct their actions to the common benefit.
[Sidenote: The generation of a commonwealth.]