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Locke and Hobbes on Human Nature: A Comparison and Evaluation

In Chapter 8 of Philosophy Here and Now, Lewis Vaughn explores the political philosophies of John Locke and Thomas Hobbes, two foundational thinkers whose views on human nature shaped modern understandings of government, rights, and authority. Though both philosophers begin with the concept of the “state of nature” to ground their theories, their descriptions of human nature and the purpose of government differ dramatically. While Hobbes offers a grim, pessimistic picture of human beings as selfish and violent, Locke presents a more optimistic view that highlights reason, morality, and cooperation. These contrasting perspectives lead to vastly different political conclusions. This essay will explain Locke’s view of human nature using Vaughn’s text and Locke’s writings, then turn to Hobbes’s view, and finally compare the two. The essay will conclude by arguing that Locke’s view is ultimately more convincing and better suited to democratic society.