Konsep Kedaulatan dalam Filsafat Politik Hobbes: Sebuah Analisis

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The concept of sovereignty, a fundamental principle in political philosophy, has been a subject of intense debate and analysis throughout history. Among the prominent thinkers who grappled with this concept was Thomas Hobbes, whose influential work, *Leviathan*, laid out a compelling theory of sovereignty that continues to resonate in contemporary political discourse. This essay delves into Hobbes's philosophy of sovereignty, examining its key tenets and exploring its implications for the nature of political power and the relationship between the ruler and the ruled. #### The State of Nature and the Need for Sovereignty Hobbes's theory of sovereignty is rooted in his understanding of the "state of nature," a hypothetical condition where individuals exist without any form of government or social order. In this state, Hobbes argued, life would be "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short," characterized by constant fear, violence, and the absence of justice. The primary motivation for individuals in the state of nature, according to Hobbes, is self-preservation, leading to a relentless pursuit of power and a perpetual state of war. To escape this chaotic and precarious existence, Hobbes argued, individuals must surrender their natural rights to a sovereign power, creating a social contract that establishes a framework for peace and order. #### The Sovereign as the Ultimate Authority The sovereign, in Hobbes's view, is the absolute and indivisible authority that holds the power to enforce laws, maintain order, and protect the security of its subjects. This power is not derived from the consent of the governed, as in later liberal theories, but rather from the necessity of preserving peace and preventing the descent into anarchy. The sovereign, therefore, is not subject to any external constraints or limitations, including the will of the people. This absolute power is essential, according to Hobbes, to ensure the stability and security of the state. #### The Role of the Sovereign in Maintaining Order The sovereign's primary function is to maintain order and prevent the recurrence of the state of nature. This involves enforcing laws, punishing criminals, and protecting the rights and property of its subjects. Hobbes believed that the sovereign must have the power to suppress any form of dissent or rebellion, as these could threaten the stability of the state. He argued that the sovereign should have the authority to censor speech, control religious practices, and even execute those who oppose its authority. #### The Limits of Sovereignty While Hobbes advocated for absolute sovereignty, he also recognized certain limits to the sovereign's power. He argued that the sovereign cannot compel individuals to commit suicide or to violate their religious beliefs. These limits, however, are not based on any inherent rights of the individual but rather on the practical consequences of such actions. For example, compelling individuals to commit suicide would undermine the sovereign's own power by reducing the number of subjects available to contribute to the state. #### Conclusion Hobbes's theory of sovereignty, with its emphasis on absolute power and the need for a strong central authority, has been both praised and criticized throughout history. While his emphasis on order and security has resonated with many, his view of the sovereign as an unaccountable and potentially tyrannical entity has raised concerns about the potential for abuse of power. Despite these criticisms, Hobbes's theory remains a significant contribution to political philosophy, offering a powerful and enduring analysis of the relationship between power, order, and the individual in the context of the state.