ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses both about Thomas Hobbes’ theory of language and view of rhetoric, and about one aspect of Hobbes’ rhetoric in Leviathan – the obvious paradox that Hobbes seems to categorically argue against figurative language in philosophy, while at the same time expressing his own philosophical argument in at times distinctively figurative language. Hobbes turns to consider the public character of language, for the communication of thinking – its understanding by others -requires the use of words whose significations are shared and not of only private signification. In sum, there is nothing to suggest that philosophical thinking expressed in language overcomes or escapes its basis in images and metaphor. Hobbes is much preoccupied in Leviathan with the dangers for the stability of civil society, inherent in the rhetorical effects of language. Hobbes’ twofold attitude to rhetoric corresponds to his earlier recognition that language provides man with the means of expressing his thinking, but also provides the means for abuse.
