Human Power and Animal World in Hobbes

Abstract

This article seeks to draw attention to the relevance of Hobbes' reflection on the place of man in the animal world. Since animals play no role in the theory of representation and no more in the theory of passions, it was concluded that power only concerns the relationships between human beings. This idea will have to be corrected by highlight-ing how the ability of humans to coordinate their actions is likely to produce a power effect within the animal world.

This article seeks to draw attention to the relevance of Hobbes' reflection on the place of man in the animal world. Since animals play no role in the theory of representation and no more in the theory of passions, it was concluded that power only concerns the relationships between human beings. This idea will have to be corrected by highlight-ing how the ability of humans to coordinate their actions is likely to produce a power effect within the animal world.