state of nature

Definitions

A hypothetical condition of humanity before the establishment of organized society or government.

The natural, unconstrained condition of human beings characterized by the absence of legal authority or social contracts.

Examples

In his political philosophy, Thomas Hobbes described the state of nature as a condition of perpetual war and chaos.

The documentary explores how animals behave in their true state of nature, far removed from human interference.

Synonyms

natural condition primal state original human condition pre-civilized existence state of innocence

Antonyms

civilized society organized political community social contract state modern civilization governed society