How to Ace Hobbes' State of Nature Questions on Your Exam

Have you ever stared at a Hobbes' State of Nature problem and felt like you were reading another language? You aren't alone. Let's break down exactly why this trips up so many students.

The 3-Step Exam Strategy

1. Isolate: Extract the exact variables from the prompt.
2. Anticipate the Trap: The professor is betting you will end up assuming humans are naturally peaceful. Know this before you write your first line.
3. Execute: Follow the algorithm. For instance: Hobbes believed that without a strong government (The Leviathan), human life would be 'nasty, brutish, and short' because we would constantly fight over scarce resources..

If you get stuck, do not burn 15 minutes staring at it. Write down the formula, get partial credit, and move on.

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