What did Thomas Hobbes believe was necessary for maintaining social order?

• A. A system of checks and balances
• B. A strong government with absolute power
• C. Decentralized authority
• D. Widespread public education

Answer: (B)

Thomas Hobbes believed that maintaining social order necessitated a strong government with absolute power. In his view, the natural state of humanity is one of chaos and conflict, often described in his seminal work "Leviathan." Hobbes argued that individuals are driven by self-interest and that without a powerful authority to impose order, society would descend into a state of anarchy. He contended that to prevent this Hobbesian state of nature, a central authority with the capability to enforce laws and maintain peace is essential. This authority, which he advocated should be absolute, would have the power to regulate behavior, thereby ensuring societal stability and preventing the violent conflicts that arise from individuals acting solely in their own interests.