a explains in Hobbesian Moral and Political Theory, Hobbes uses the resolutive-compositive method of investigation and analysis in trying to devise a vision of human nature and politics which will support his Leviathan. This method "involves understanding a system by breaking it down--in thought--into its basic constituent elements" (Kavka 19). Of course, Hobbes finds what he is looking for, just as John Locke, seeking a state of nature more reflective of his greater optimism, found it. Hobbes looked around at the turbulence of his own time and place, peered into the likely nature behind and causing that turbulence, and found a state of nature of constant war.
Hobbes wanted above all to justify establishing a Leviathan who would have such power that he could and would crush all threats to the peace of the state. Therefore, looking back on this half-reasoned, half-speculated state of nature, Hobbes blamed its turbulen
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