Hobbes and Locke had differing views on the primary object of government, reflecting their distinct philosophies regarding human nature and social contracts.
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Thomas Hobbes: Hobbes believed that the primary object of government was to ensure order and prevent chaos. In his view, humans in their natural state were self-interested and prone to conflict, leading to a "state of nature" characterized by fear and violence. Thus, he argued that a strong, centralized authority (a "Leviathan") was necessary to maintain peace and security, suppress individual desires, and avoid the anarchy of a state of nature.
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John Locke: In contrast, Locke viewed the primary object of government as the protection of individual rights, particularly life, liberty, and property. He posited that people are generally rational and capable of coexistence, and that the government's role is to safeguard these natural rights and provide a framework for justice and order. Locke emphasized the consent of the governed and believed that governments must be accountable to the people, with the right to revolt if they fail to protect those rights.
In summary, while Hobbes focused on order and security as the primary purpose of government, Locke emphasized the protection of individual rights and the importance of consent.