The concept of "state of nature" in political philosophy refers to a hypothetical condition before the establishment of organized society or government. Thinkers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau envisioned it as a way to explore human nature and the justification for government. In this state, individuals are free, yet often in conflict, leading to insecurity and chaos. The state of nature helps to explain the social contract and why individuals consent to form governments, ultimately sacrificing some freedoms for security and order in the civil state.