1. Chapter 6: Contractarianism
The writings of Thomas Hobbes
Individuals are prior to society
Conflict arises as separate individuals seek the same thing
The state of nature is one of war – all against all
The solution is peace
The contract is the agreement to give up certain items to gain one’s own self- interest.

2. Chapter 6: Contractarianism
Reading – The Leviathan
Man has equality of strength
Man has equality of hope
Three primary causes of quarrel
“Jus naturale” – the liberty of each man to use his own power for the preservation of his own nature.
Key words
- law of nature
- liberty
- contract

3. Chapter 6: Contractarianism
Reading – The Leviathan
Leading to Promise
Leading to a Commonwealth
Leading to the Great Leviathan

4. Chapter 6: Contractarianism
Reading – Contractualism and Utilitarianism
The central place of Utilitarianism
Contractualism – an alternative
The basis of moral appraisal is the goal of maximizing the sum of individual well being
The “informed agreement”
Continued contrasts between the two positions