Meaning: The quote "It is not wisdom but Authority that makes a law" by Thomas Hobbes, the English philosopher, encapsulates a fundamental aspect of political philosophy and the nature of law. Thomas Hobbes was a prominent figure in the 17th century, known for his work on social contract theory and political philosophy. This quote reflects his perspective on the origin and legitimacy of laws within a society.

Hobbes's statement suggests that the creation and enforcement of laws are not solely based on wisdom or rationality, but rather on the authority of those in power. In other words, the legitimacy of a law is derived from the authority of the governing body rather than the inherent wisdom or moral justification of the law itself. This viewpoint aligns with Hobbes's broader political theory, which emphasizes the importance of a strong central authority to maintain social order and prevent the state of nature, which he famously described as "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short."

From Hobbes's perspective, the authority that establishes and enforces laws is essential for maintaining social order and preventing chaos. In his seminal work "Leviathan," Hobbes argued that individuals willingly surrender some of their natural rights to a sovereign authority in exchange for protection and the maintenance of order within society. This social contract forms the basis of legitimate political authority and the laws that govern a community.

Hobbes's assertion that authority, rather than wisdom, makes a law has significant implications for understanding the nature of legal systems and political power. It highlights the role of authority and sovereignty in shaping the legal framework of a society, emphasizing the importance of a centralized power structure in establishing and enforcing laws. This perspective challenges the notion that laws are inherently rooted in moral or rational principles, suggesting instead that they are shaped by the authority of those in positions of power.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a critique of the idealistic view that laws are solely based on wisdom or moral righteousness. Instead, it underscores the pragmatic reality that laws are often established and enforced by those in authority to maintain order and preserve the stability of a society. This perspective can be seen as a reflection of the realpolitik approach to governance, which prioritizes the practical exercise of power over abstract notions of justice or wisdom.

In contemporary political and legal discourse, Hobbes's quote continues to provoke critical reflection on the nature of authority, law, and governance. It prompts consideration of the relationship between power and legality, raising important questions about the sources of legitimacy for legal systems and the role of authority in shaping the social contract. Moreover, the quote serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between political authority, social order, and the creation of laws in modern societies.

In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes's quote "It is not wisdom but Authority that makes a law" encapsulates his perspective on the origin and legitimacy of laws within a society. It emphasizes the central role of authority in establishing and enforcing laws, challenging the notion that laws are solely rooted in wisdom or moral righteousness. This quote continues to provoke critical reflection on the nature of political authority, legal legitimacy, and the relationship between power and law in contemporary society.