Understanding the State and Sovereignty

The video explores the evolution of political organization from empires to modern states, focusing on Thomas Hobbes' 17th-century ideas. Hobbes, influenced by the English Civil War, argued against divided sovereignty, proposing a single sovereign to unify the people's wills into a Leviathan. The state's main role was protection and maintaining order. Modern liberal democracies, however, divide sovereignty among institutions, a concept Hobbes saw as problematic. Despite the risks, this system has endured, highlighting the balance of power in contemporary governance.

What was the primary political organization in Europe before the emergence of states?

• Empires, cities, and churches

• Democracies and republics

• Tribal councils

• Federal governments

According to Hobbes, what was the main cause of the English Civil War?

• Divided sovereignty

• Foreign invasion

• Religious differences

• Economic disparity

What is the Leviathan according to Hobbes?

• A mythical sea creature

• A unified will of the people

• A type of government

• A religious institution

In Hobbes' theory, who or what gives the Leviathan its will?

• The church

• The military

• The sovereign

• The people

What is the primary purpose of the state according to Hobbes?

• To promote economic growth

• To provide education

• To protect the people from outsiders

• To ensure religious freedom

How does Hobbes suggest maintaining good order within the state?

• By promoting cultural activities

• By strengthening the Leviathan

• By encouraging trade

• By building infrastructure

What is a defining feature of modern liberal democracies?

• Unified sovereignty

• Divided sovereignty

• Monarchical rule

• Religious governance

In a liberal democracy, who is considered sovereign?

• The legislature

• The people

• The military

• The judiciary

What is the risk associated with divided sovereignty in liberal democracies?

• Economic collapse

• Cultural stagnation

• Power seizure by one party

• Environmental degradation

What is remarkable about the system of divided sovereignty in liberal democracies?

• It has never failed

• It often leads to war

• It has not failed more often

• It is universally accepted