Abstract

›Liberty‹ is the key concept in Thomas Hobbes’ political philosophy. In this article the Hobbesian conception of liberty is developed at first. Particular attention is given to the constraint of the liberty of the will. The result of the inquiry is then faced with the interpretation of Quentin Skinner. Subsequently his view that Hobbes has radically changed his view of freedom, is discarded. The difference worked out to his opinion is appreciable and equals a new interpretation of the hobbessian understanding of liberty, for according to Skinner fear does not constrict liberty. But it does, and so also fear of power and its exercise restrains human liberty. This considerable difference leads to a new understanding of the prevailing liberty in the state of nature and under a sovereign.