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About this quote

What does it mean?
The natural condition of man is a state of war where everyone fights everyone.
In plain terms
Man's natural state is war against everyone else.
What can you take from it?
Human nature without order is inherently conflict-driven.

Where it applies

  • political theory
  • international relations
  • history

Putting it to work

  • study state necessity
  • analyze conflict

Questions to consider

  • Are humans naturally warlike?
  • What prevents constant conflict?

Another view

It presents an overly pessimistic view of human nature.

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