Introduction To Political Philosophy- Jonathan ... Link

Briefly touch upon the utilitarian argument mentioned by Wolff: the state is justified because it promotes the "greatest happiness for the greatest number" more effectively than anarchy.

If you'd prefer a different focus, you can use these themes from Jonathan Wolff's work : An Introduction to Political Philosophy by Jonathan Wolff

Summarize that while the state's legitimacy is difficult to prove through absolute consent, the alternative (the State of Nature) is generally seen as a condition where humans cannot truly thrive. Introduction to Political Philosophy- Jonathan ...

While Hobbes and Locke offer vastly different visions of human life without government (the "State of Nature"), both ultimately conclude that a centralized state is necessary to ensure human flourishing, though they differ on the legitimate extent of that state's power. 2. The State of Nature: Hobbes vs. Locke

Use Wolff’s analysis to highlight the problem of political obligation . Do we actually consent? Wolff discusses "tacit consent" (consenting by staying in a country) and "hypothetical consent" (what we would do if we were rational), noting that both are philosophically controversial. 4. The Utilitarian Alternative Briefly touch upon the utilitarian argument mentioned by

Describe Hobbes’s view of a "war of all against all," where life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short" due to scarcity and fear.

Contrast this with Locke’s view, where a moral law exists even without a government, but "inconveniences" (like the lack of an impartial judge) eventually make the State of Nature untenable. 3. Justifying the State Do we actually consent

Compare the "State of Nature" theories of Thomas Hobbes and John Locke. Does Wolff’s analysis suggest we have a moral obligation to obey the state? 1. Introduction