Thomas Hobbes claimed that survival is basic in nature and, therefore, should be primary as we consider our relationship to government. To the rhetorical question, “Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?” Hobbes would have responded: “Absolutely — everything is better than being dead.” How precious is “life itself”? Are there some things without which life would not be worthwhile to you? What would you risk your life for? What would you give it for?