Article(electronic)1998
Retained Liberties and Absolute Hobbesian Authorization
In: Hobbes studies, Volume 11, Issue 1, p. 33-45
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Abstract
AbstractHobbes claims that the sovereign's absolute authority is consistent with the subjects' retaining liberties to resist certain commands. In this essay, I explore what it means for subject to authorize a sovereign with a right to command. I show how retained rights are compatible with sovereignty. Though any given subject does not authorize the sovereign to do anything, I argue that the sovereign power is absolute. The sovereign has the most power anyone could command.
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