Meaning: The quote "Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues" is attributed to the English philosopher Thomas Hobbes, who is best known for his work in political philosophy, particularly for his influential book "Leviathan" published in 1651. This quote encapsulates Hobbes's views on the nature of war and the behavior of individuals and states in the context of conflict.

Hobbes's philosophy is often associated with the concept of the "state of nature," which he described as a hypothetical condition in which there is no overarching authority to enforce rules or resolve disputes. In the state of nature, according to Hobbes, individuals are driven by their own self-interest and the pursuit of power, which can lead to a state of perpetual conflict and war. In this context, the quote can be understood as a reflection of Hobbes's belief that in the absence of a higher authority, the use of force and deception are essential tools in the pursuit of one's interests and survival.

The concept of "force" in the quote refers to the physical or coercive power that can be exerted to achieve one's objectives in war. In the state of nature, where there is no central authority to enforce peace or justice, individuals or states must rely on their own strength and military capabilities to defend themselves and assert their interests. This idea aligns with Hobbes's belief in the necessity of a strong, centralized authority to maintain order and prevent the descent into chaos and violence.

Similarly, the notion of "fraud" in the quote highlights the role of deception and manipulation in the conduct of war. In a state of conflict, where trust is scarce and adversaries are competing for advantage, the use of deceit and cunning tactics can be seen as a strategic necessity. Hobbes's perspective on the prevalence of fraud in war reflects his grim assessment of human nature in the absence of a social contract or governing authority.

Hobbes's views on the nature of war and human behavior were deeply influenced by the tumultuous political and social context of his time. He lived through a period of intense political upheaval, including the English Civil War, which shaped his pessimistic outlook on the inherent selfishness and aggressiveness of human beings. His writings on the necessity of a strong sovereign authority to maintain order and prevent the chaos of the state of nature were a response to the instability and violence of the era in which he lived.

It is important to note that while Hobbes's views on war and human nature are often characterized as bleak and cynical, they also form the foundation of his broader political philosophy. His ideas laid the groundwork for the development of social contract theory and the concept of the sovereign state as a means of ensuring peace and stability in society. Despite the apparent harshness of his assessment of human behavior, Hobbes ultimately sought to provide a framework for the establishment of a just and orderly political order.

In conclusion, the quote "Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues" reflects Thomas Hobbes's perspective on the nature of war and human behavior in the context of conflict. It encapsulates his belief in the necessity of power and deception as essential tools in the pursuit of one's interests in the absence of a strong governing authority. This quote is emblematic of Hobbes's broader philosophical outlook, which emphasizes the importance of a centralized sovereign power to prevent the descent into the chaos and violence of the state of nature.