Why Should We Obey An Absolute Government?
Court L. Farrell

According to Thomas Hobbes, there is no alternative that exists save that of an absolute government. In fact, he cares very little about the forms of government (as mentioned by Aristotle many centuries before) as long as those types of government exercise power absolutely. Yet, is that not a paradoxical question? Could it be true that perhaps if one seeks absolute power in the government then the types of regimes are limited? A democracy, for example, cannot exhibit absolute authority in a regime but a monarchical governing body can, does, and ultimately will. So, in answering this point of view, in my humble opinion, Hobbes does show concern for the types of regimes under which one must govern absolutely.

To continue into this look of absolute power, it is stated that the only framework for which wars are conducted is the inability for man, as an inherently social and ignorant being, to decipher what is evil/good, wrong/right, and just/unjust. Yet, are there also not inner-wars of a civil nature from whence an absolute ruler attempts to maintain power? Is this also not a war that could be included? There have often been times where the ruler has started the war, not based on a misconception of evildoing, but instead of the attempt to control the populace in the throes of an absolute dictatorship.

In regards to the Hobbesian concept that the United States is indeed a government with absolute power, I say "nay". There are certain inalienable rights protected by the United States Constitution that the government has no power to overthrow. It is under this discretionary policy, where the citizens of the United States have the power to control and maintain the authority of the government; for the United States Government cannot infringe upon the rights of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. It is through these Amendments to Constitution (Bill of Rights) as well as the continuing Amendments throughout the years, where the people have the sole right to hold in check the authority of absolute governmental power.