Award-winning journalist, author and public intellectual Stan Grant is set to explore questions about society, government and freedom at NSW Parliament House's Power, Politics and Leviathan next month.

Drawing on Thomas Hobbes' seminal work Leviathan, which is featured in the Parliament's collection, Grant will examine one of the foundational ideas of modern political thought - that a powerful sovereign authority is necessary to prevent conflict and maintain social order.

Mr Grant said Hobbes' view of human nature remains one of the most provocative and controversial ideas in political philosophy.

"Thomas Hobbes believed that in our natural state, there is only a war of all against all," he said.

"And he saw the necessity of a leviathan, of a sovereign, who would civilise our worst instincts.

"That's a very bleak view of the world."

Published in 1651 during the turmoil of the English Civil Wars, Leviathan argued individuals surrender some freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for security and stability.

The book's ideas went on to become the foundation of social contract theory and continue to influence debates about democracy, leadership and the role of government more than three centuries later.

Hosted by Simon Marnie, the conversation will delve into Hobbes' enduring ideas on power, government and human nature, examining their influence on political thought and public life today.

The evening will also provide a rare opportunity to view a first edition copy of Leviathan from the historic collections at the Parliament of NSW.

Presented at NSW Parliament House, the event invites audiences to engage with ideas which continue to shape democratic societies and public life today.

Power, Politics and Leviathan: Stan Grant in Conversation with Simon Marnie will be held on Tuesday 13 October at Theatrette (Level 6), NSW Parliament House, from 6:30pm to 7:45pm.

Tickets can be purchased online.