Thomas Hobbes is one of the foremost among very influential political philosophers. His Leviathan is a major classic in the canon and is taught in most colleges and universities at all levels. In this clearly written companion to Hobbes's thought, Lemetti (Univ. of Helsinki, Finland) offers a not quite comprehensive guidebook, primarily for reading Leviathan. He defines and explains Hobbes's concepts, and includes other philosophers and people in his life, as well as topics that pertain to his thought....The biographical chronology and introduction are interesting and very useful. Lemetti is fair and unbiased, neither praising nor critically commenting on Hobbes's works. The 550 or so entries range from two inches to two pages, and include quotations from Hobbes or his commentators. Most terms are cross-referenced. Because Hobbes wrote in Old English, this companion is very helpful. This reviewer--who teaches Hobbes and admires his philosophy--found this dictionary stimulating enough, and an excellent resource for research, especially because of its lengthy bibliography (p. 365-404). Summing Up: Highly recommended. Library reference collections supporting upper-level undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty
