A collection of papers by scholars marking the fourth centenary of the birth of Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679). This volume is part of a series which provides views on central aspects of Hobbes' life and work, testifying to his enduring importance as a major philosopher.

G.A.J. Rogers: Introduction; Richard Tuck: Hobbes and Descartes; Noel Malcolm: Hobbes and the Royal Society; Tom Sorell: The science in Hobbes's politics; Alan Ryan: Hobbes and individualism; François Tricaud: Hobbes's conception of the state of nature from 1640 to 1651: Evolution and ambiguities; David Gauthier: Hobbes's social contract; D.D. Raphael: Hobbes on justice; Arrigo Pacchi: Hobbes and the problem of God; G.A.J. Rogers: Hobbes's hidden influence; Index of names

`These pieces, brought together in a well-produced book, are a variety of insights, all solidly, though in varying degrees, backed by evidence.' International Hobbes Association Newsletter `excellent volume ... this is a rewarding book' Tracy B. Strong, University of California, British Journal for the History of Science 'excellent collection of essays ... It provides a good account of the state of scholarship on one who remains one of the most notorious political thinkers and shows the continued liveliness of the debates about his life and work.' Sylvana Tomaselli, British Journal for Eighteenth Century Studies, 15:1 'the 400th anniversary of Hobbes' birth occasioned asking some Hobbes scholars of note to contribute hopefully worthy articles ... In the main, this editorial intention succeeded: of the nine papers that compose the collection a number are very fine.' Philosophia, Volume 21, Nos. 3-4, April 1992 'an important collection' Mark Goldie, Churchill College, Cambridge, EHR, Apr. 92