Philosophy 355
Essay Topic:  Hobbes' Political Theory
Due Monday, Feb. 12th


Your assignment in this essay is, broadly, to examine and critically assess Hobbes' political theory.
You are to a great extent free to develop your discussion in whatever direction most interests
you, but your essay should meet the following conditions:

       1.  Your discussion should focus on one or more aspects of Hobbes' theory, and a significant
             part of the paper should devoted to a detailed explanation of those aspects.

       2.  Your discussion should provide some critical assessment of Hobbes' theory.

Within these guidelines, I encourage you to develop the paper in any direction you wish.  
Keep in mind that in evaluating the paper I'll be concentrating on the following questions:

1.  Does the paper demonstrate a solid command of Hobbes' theory as we've discussed it in class
    and as it is developed in the reading?

2.  Does the paper demonstrate an ability to engage the theory critically and in detail?

Reminder:  Papers are Due Monday, Feb. 12th

Length:  Aim at a length of 4-6 pages (typed, double-spaced)

Note:  I will be happy to help you in any way I can as you are developing your essay.  Feel free
    to contact me with questions.  I'll be happy to comment on an outline or even a rough draft.