Extended Essays 2021

people. 7 As a result through deductive reasoning, it is evident that there can be no

premise for the mobilisation of a rebellion regardless of circumstance as there are no

expectations to violate. In addition, due to the lack of system of accountability for the

state, it cannot be held liable by any means further preventing insurrection. Hobbes

delivers a paradox whereby one’s obligation remains to the government as long as

they are protected by it. Consequently, due to the absolute power of government,

society cannot feasibly revolt or enact change within such a society. The implication

being Hobbes’s argument for non-violent protest as a means of voicing concerns. This

is illustrated within the following premises:

p ⊃ q

P1

If the government maintains absolute power over the

people, them it will precent chaos and perpetual war.

P2

The absolutist state denies the right to rebel.

p

∴

Conclusion Therefore, chaos is prevented.

q

Following the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, the right to bear arms as a

means to rebel is enabled. Thus, the corollary to the argument is:

~ q

P2

The US Constitution facilitates the right to rebel.

Conclusion Therefore, chaos is always imminent as the government ~ p

does not hold absolute power.

7 Lloyd, Sharon A, and Susanne Sreedhar. “Hobbes’s Moral and Political Philosophy (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy).” Stanford.edu , 12 Feb. 2002, plato.stanford.edu/entries/hobbes-moral/.

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