Meaning: The quote "The condition of man... is a condition of war of everyone against everyone" is attributed to Thomas Hobbes, a renowned philosopher, and political theorist who lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. This quote is taken from his most famous work, "Leviathan," which was published in 1651. In this groundbreaking book, Hobbes expounds his theory of the social contract and the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent the state of nature from devolving into chaos and conflict.

Hobbes' quote encapsulates his bleak view of human nature and the state of existence in the absence of a governing authority. According to Hobbes, in the state of nature, where there is no overarching power to enforce laws and maintain order, individuals are driven by their self-interest and the pursuit of their own desires. This leads to a constant state of conflict and competition, where everyone is pitted against everyone else in a struggle for survival and dominance.

Hobbes's concept of the state of nature is essential to understanding his political philosophy. He posited that in the absence of a sovereign power to keep individuals in check, life would be "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." According to Hobbes, this state of nature is characterized by a perpetual war of all against all, where individuals are in a constant state of fear and insecurity.

In response to this grim assessment of human nature, Hobbes proposed the idea of a social contract, wherein individuals willingly surrender some of their freedoms to a sovereign authority in exchange for protection and the preservation of order. This sovereign power, according to Hobbes, must be absolute and unchallengeable to prevent the descent into chaos and violence. This theory laid the groundwork for the development of modern political thought and the concept of the state as the ultimate authority.

Hobbes's ideas sparked considerable controversy and debate during his time, and they continue to be the subject of scholarly discussion and analysis to this day. His work has had a profound impact on political theory, ethics, and the understanding of human nature. The quote "The condition of man... is a condition of war of everyone against everyone" is a succinct representation of Hobbes's pessimistic view of human existence and the fundamental need for a strong central authority to maintain order and prevent the chaos of the state of nature.

In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes's quote encapsulates his stark assessment of human nature and the state of existence in the absence of a governing authority. His theory of the state of nature as a condition of war of everyone against everyone reflects his belief in the inherent selfishness and competitiveness of individuals. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of Hobbes's ideas in understanding the nature of power, authority, and the social contract in modern society.