Thomas Hobbes: 'Fear of things invisible in the natural seed of that which everyone in himself calleth religion.'

Fear of things invisible in the natural seed of that which everyone in himself calleth religion.

The quote by Thomas Hobbes, "Fear of things invisible in the natural seed of that which everyone in himself calleth religion," highlights the fundamental connection between fear, belief in the unseen, and the concept of religion. In a straightforward manner, this quote suggests that the fear of unknown or invisible phenomena lies at the very core of religion, as individuals seek to find solace and explanations for the inexplicable through their religious beliefs. This notion resonates with many religious traditions that address the invisible forces governing our world, such as the divine, afterlife, or supernatural beings. However, to add an unexpected philosophical twist to this discussion, an exploration into the concept of existentialism can shed new light on the meaning and importance of Hobbes' quote.Existentialism, a philosophical theory developed in the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizes individual existence and freedom of choice. It proposes that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life, as opposed to relying on external forces or institutions. Upon first glance, existentialism may appear disconnected from the idea of religion, as it focuses on the human experience rather than metaphysical concepts. But upon closer inspection, a common thread emerges – the quest to face the fear of the unknown and grapple with questions of existence.Religion, with its invisible and intangible aspects, can be seen as a response to the inherent anxiety of human existence. It provides a framework through which individuals attempt to navigate the ambiguous nature of life and find meaning. While existentialism places the responsibility for creating meaning on the individual, religion often offers ready-made answers and assurances, relieving individuals of the burden of too much uncertainty. In this sense, religion can be seen as a response to the seed of fear that Hobbes mentions, providing individuals with a sense of security and understanding in the face of the unknown.However, when comparing the two concepts, a striking contrast emerges. Existentialism challenges the notion of relying on external sources, such as religion, to combat fear and find purpose. Instead, it encourages individuals to confront fear head-on, recognizing that the invisible can also be a source of liberation and self-discovery. Existentialists argue that by embracing the unknown, individuals can transcend the limitations imposed by external institutions and create their own authentic life paths.While religion may provide comfort and solace, it can also be criticized for potentially stifling individual freedom and perpetuating conformity. Existentialism, on the other hand, pushes individuals to question societal norms and encourages the exploration of personal beliefs and values. It challenges individuals to face the fear of the invisible without relying on external religious frameworks, ultimately providing a more profound sense of self and purpose.In conclusion, Hobbes' quote captures the intrinsic link between fear, belief in the unseen, and the concept of religion. It suggests that religion serves as a response to the innate human fear of the unknown, providing individuals with explanations and comfort. However, by introducing the philosophical concept of existentialism, we gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and importance of Hobbes' quote. Existentialism challenges the notion of relying on external sources, like religion, by encouraging individuals to confront fear directly and take ownership of their existence. By exploring these contrasting ideas, we can contemplate the complexity of fear, religion, and human existence in a thought-provoking manner.