Article
Hobbes Concept of Multitude
Registro en:
Astorga, O. (2011), Hobbes concept of Multitude. Hobbes Studies, Brill, pp.5-14.
0921-5891
Autor
Astorga, Omar
Institución
Resumen
Abstract
In this brief article I expound some uses that Hobbes gave to the concept of multitude. Firstly,
I explain the distinction between “people” and “multitude”, the confusion of which was regarded
in De Cive as a cause of sedition. Th e plural and disunited character of the multitude is highlighted,
in comparison with the unity that constitutes the people. Secondly, I show that Hobbes,
beyond the cited distinction, makes a relevant use in Leviathan of the principle of representation,
in order to show the way in which multitude becomes State. Finally, I highlight the two-fold use
given by the author to such concept: on the one hand, by attributing a theoretical role to it,
which should allow thinking of the rational construction of the State; on the other, by showing
the historical reality of multitude, turned into a source of madness and sedition.