"I put for the general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual and restless desire of power after power, that ceaseth only in death"

Thomas Hobbes, in this observation, delves deeply into the human condition and the intrinsic drives that motivate individuals throughout their lives. He regards the pursuit of power as a universal characteristic, something not confined to specific societies, eras, or personalities but embedded within the very nature of humankind. Power for Hobbes is not solely political or physical power; rather, it signifies any means by which a person can secure their present and future desires, encompassing wealth, status, influence, knowledge, and security.

The phrase “perpetual and restless desire” illustrates that this yearning for power does not pause or conclude at any point during one’s life. Once an individual has attained a certain level of influence or satisfaction, the appetite does not abate but propels them forward in search of more, driven by a persistent sense of insecurity, ambition, or even simple emulation of others. This ceaseless motion is spurred by the uncertainty of the future, the lack of guarantees in a world that is unpredictable and competitive.

Hobbes’s assertion that this desire “ceaseth only in death” underscores the futility of expecting lasting satisfaction or inner tranquillity from worldly gains, as humans are fundamentally incapable of contentment within the flux of life. No achievement, possession, or accolade can halt the innate drive for more, because each acquisition sparks new possibilities and desires. It is only with the termination of consciousness, death itself, that the perpetual striving ceases.

By recognizing this inherent restlessness, Hobbes sets the stage for his broader philosophical reflections on society and governance. He sees the insatiable nature of human desires as a potential source of conflict, chaos, and mutual distrust. The recognition of this trait becomes foundational for justifying the need for strong governance, as only a structured authority can channel these never-ending pursuits into the order and stability necessary for coexistence. Thus, Hobbes’s analysis of human motivation links directly to his celebrated ideas about social contracts and the role of the sovereign.