THE PLACE OF RELIGION IN THOMAS HOBBES’ STATE AND SOVEREIGNTY THOUGHT: EXAMPLE OF LEVIATHAN

Abstract

When evaluated in historical processes, it is possible to see that monarchs and states have made divine discourses in order to consolidate their authority and ensure their sovereignty over the people. Moreover, even the belief that the person and persons in the executive position have the position of the representatives of God on earth existed in these processes. In this context, firstly, information about the period and personality of Thomas Hobbes was given and the sovereignty and state understanding of Hobbes was investigated by considering Leviathan, one of Thomas Hobbes' most important works. Accordingly, the place of religion was tried to be determined in Hobbes' understanding of state and sovereignty. In the study, it was concluded that Leviathan, which was created by contractual people by giving up their own rights, was placed above all institutions including religion and that religion should be under the authority and control of Leviathan. The underlying reason for this situation can be stated that Hobbes has an absolute understanding of monarchy, and according to this understanding, the state will predict that the state will weaken and collapse in the presence of both the rule of religion and Leviathan's sovereignty created by contract.