Hobbes and Succession

Hobbes’ discussion on the different forms of government is fascinating. When noting how the monarchy is superior, Hobbes makes many interesting points. To me, one of the more fascinating points is when he discusses succession within the monarchy. Hobbes writes, “By express words or testament, when it is declared by him in his lifetime, viva voce [orally] or by writing, as the first emperors of Rome declared who should be their heirs. For the word heir does not of itself imply the children, or nearest kindred of a man, but whomsoever a man shall any way declare he would have to succeed him in his estate” (125). While I do not believe that this interpretation was often applied in historical monarchies, I do think that this point helps Hobbes’ argument. His concept of the monarchy, including this idea of succession, does make this form of government seem more logical. In his monarchy, Kings would ideally be chosen for their merit, and not simply because they are related to former kings.