Meaning: The quote "I put for the general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual and restless desire of power after power, that ceaseth only in death" by Thomas Hobbes, a renowned philosopher, encapsulates a fundamental aspect of human nature that he believed to be universal and unceasing. Thomas Hobbes was an influential thinker of the 17th century, best known for his work in political philosophy and his book "Leviathan," in which he explored the nature of human beings and the social contract theory.

In this quote, Hobbes delves into the concept of human ambition and the relentless pursuit of power. He posits that all individuals, irrespective of their social or cultural backgrounds, possess an inherent and unending desire for power. According to Hobbes, this desire is not transient or fleeting but rather an enduring and relentless force that persists until the end of one's life. The phrase "a perpetual and restless desire of power after power" suggests an insatiable craving for dominance and control, indicating that the pursuit of power is an ongoing and relentless endeavor for humanity.

Hobbes' assertion about the perpetual nature of the human desire for power reflects his pessimistic view of human nature. He believed that individuals are primarily motivated by self-interest and the pursuit of power, and this inclination drives human behavior and interactions within society. For Hobbes, the perpetual quest for power was a foundational aspect of the human condition, shaping not only individual actions but also the dynamics of political, social, and interpersonal relationships.

This quote also aligns with Hobbes' broader philosophical framework, particularly his theory of the state of nature. According to Hobbes, in the absence of a central authority or social contract, human beings exist in a state of nature characterized by a perpetual "war of all against all." In this state, individuals are driven by their desire for self-preservation and power, leading to a constant competition and conflict. Hobbes argued that the establishment of a sovereign authority and a social contract was necessary to mitigate the inherent discord arising from humanity's unceasing pursuit of power.

Furthermore, the phrase "that ceaseth only in death" underscores the relentless nature of this desire, suggesting that it is an intrinsic part of the human experience until the very end of one's life. Hobbes' depiction of the human pursuit of power as an enduring and unyielding force serves to emphasize the pervasive and enduring influence of this inclination on human behavior and societal structures.

Hobbes' perspective on human nature and the pursuit of power has sparked extensive debate and analysis among scholars and philosophers. While some critics have challenged his pessimistic view of humanity, others have found resonance with his portrayal of the enduring quest for power as a fundamental aspect of human behavior. The quote continues to provoke contemplation and discussion regarding the nature of power, ambition, and the complexities of human motivation.

In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes' quote encapsulates his belief in the perpetual and relentless desire for power as an inherent trait of all mankind. His assertion that this inclination ceases only in death reflects his pessimistic view of human nature and the enduring impact of the pursuit of power on individual behavior and societal dynamics. This quote serves as a thought-provoking insight into Hobbes' philosophical perspective and continues to stimulate discourse on the nature of power and human ambition.