Given the options presented, I would choose to live under a government with civil society rather than

in a state of nature or under an absolutist government. This choice aligns with the philosophies of
John Locke and Baron de Montesquieu, as well as certain aspects of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's thought.

John Locke, in his seminal work "Two Treatises of Government," argues for the importance of civil
society and government to protect natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. Locke posits
that individuals enter into a social contract to form a government that exists to safeguard these rights.
This perspective emphasizes the need for a structured society to ensure the protection and
preservation of individual liberties.

Furthermore, Baron de Montesquieu, in his influential work "The Spirit of the Laws," advocates for
the separation of powers within government to prevent tyranny and ensure the rule of law.
Montesquieu's theory of the separation of powers underscores the necessity of a balanced
government with checks and balances to maintain stability and prevent the concentration of power in
the hands of a single individual or entity.

While Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept of the social contract differs somewhat from Locke's and
Montesquieu's, he also emphasizes the importance of community and cooperation in creating a just
society. Rousseau argues in "The Social Contract" that individuals should submit to the general will of
the community, which is based on the common good rather than individual interests. Although
Rousseau's vision of the ideal society differs from Locke's and Montesquieu's in some respects, it still
emphasizes the need for organized governance rather than a state of nature or absolute rule.

Living under a government with civil society provides several benefits. Firstly, it ensures the
protection of individual rights and liberties, which are essential for human flourishing. Secondly, it
establishes a framework for social order and stability, allowing for peaceful coexistence and
cooperation among citizens. Additionally, a government with civil society allows for the rule of law to
prevail, promoting justice and fairness within society.

In contrast, living in a state of nature, as theorized by Hobbes, would be chaotic and precarious, with
individuals in constant competition and conflict over limited resources. Absolutist government, as
advocated by certain historical rulers, concentrates power in the hands of a single authority, which
can lead to tyranny, oppression, and the violation of individual rights.

In conclusion, the choice to live under a government with civil society is preferable due to its
alignment with principles of individual rights, the rule of law, and social order. This position is
supported by the ideas of Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau, who emphasize the importance of
structured governance and community cooperation in creating a just and prosperous society.

References:

Locke, John. "Two Treatises of Government." 1689.

Montesquieu, Baron de. "The Spirit of the Laws." 1748.
Rousseau, Jean-Jacques. "The Social Contract." 1762.