Why does Hobbes think that it is necessary for persons to transfer nearly all of their rights to the sovereign rather than merely some of their rights?

Hobbes believed that it's in man's best interest to live in a lawful and orderly society. Therefore, we give up our rights to the sovereign who enforces this law and order.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_and_legal_rights#Thomas_Hobbes

As locke think we can give some of our rights why hobbes focus on transferring all the rights to sovereign. Why he make exception for self defense

To understand why Hobbes believed that it is necessary for individuals to transfer nearly all of their rights to the sovereign, we need to delve into his philosophy and reasoning.

Hobbes was a 17th-century English philosopher who is best known for his book "Leviathan," in which he presented his political theory. According to Hobbes, human nature is inherently driven by self-interest and a desire for self-preservation. He believed that in the state of nature, without any form of government or authority, people's lives would be solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.

To escape this state of nature and its inevitable conflicts, Hobbes argued that individuals must enter into a social contract and establish a sovereign to wield absolute power. Here's why Hobbes thought it necessary for individuals to transfer nearly all of their rights to the sovereign:

1. Preservation of peace and order: According to Hobbes, humans possess natural rights, including the right to self-preservation. However, these natural rights are constantly endangered in the state of nature due to the absence of a common power to enforce them. By transferring their rights to the sovereign, people ensure that a central authority, with the power to impose order and security, is established.

2. Prevention of conflicts and chaos: Hobbes believed that human nature inherently leads to conflicts driven by competition, diffidence, and the desire for glory and power. Giving the sovereign nearly all rights prevents individuals from acting upon their own judgment and reduces the likelihood of conflicts and chaos. The sovereign's authority keeps individuals in check and resolves conflicts through its monopoly on power.

3. Effective execution of laws and protection of rights: In order for the sovereign to effectively maintain peace and order, Hobbes argued that all power must be wielded by a single entity. If individuals retain some rights and power, it may result in factionalism, disagreements, and a fragmented society. By transferring nearly all rights, the sovereign can enforce laws impartially and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.

It's important to note that Hobbes' argument stems from his pessimistic view of human nature, emphasizing the need for a strong central authority. However, his theory has been subject to criticism and alternative political philosophies have offered different perspectives on the relationship between individuals and the state.