The Hobbesian state of nature is quoted as “a war of all against all.” Hobbes argued that human beings have predispositions to be selfish, aggressive, and devious. Without keeping those predispositions in check through enforcing laws and agreements, humans will inevitably slip intothis “state of nature.” The state of nature is lawless, brutal, and dangerous, with no technical codeof conduct and no justice. This is illustrated in the story distinctly because the boys are on a deserted island and resort to brutal, uncivilized behavior because of the lack of a proper authorityfigure to guide them. Hobbes justifies the imposition of the Leviathan on individuals by explaining that human beings have impulses of self-preservation, self-interest and are equipped with the ability to reason. These impulses drive individuals to give up some of their freedoms and powers for something that will keep the peace and allow for the betterment of all. This is represented in the excerpt when the boys decided to elect a leader of the group. They were willing to sacrifice their freedomto elect someone who gives them the best chance at survival and potentially rescued, which was in all their best interests. The conch can be interpreted as the agreement that keeps the group in check. Hobbes speaks of keeping predispositions in check through enforcing laws and agreements. The conch is used as a tool to summon the group. It is agreed that when the sound of the conch is heard, they will gather. Additionally, whoever is holding the conch is the individual who has the power to speak. The power of the conch is a mutually agreed-upon measure which enforces civilized