Aristotle's Theory of Justice and Teleological Reasoning

Justice as Teleological

Justice relates to the purpose of activities.

Telos

Purpose or end goal of an activity.

Justice as Honorific

Recognizing and honoring virtues in society.

Justice and Virtue

Justice involves determining who deserves recognition.

Merit-Based Distribution

Resources should be allocated based on merit.

Arbitrary Criteria

Unjust distribution based on irrelevant qualities.

Civic Virtue

Qualities necessary for effective political leadership.

Teleological Reasoning

Understanding actions based on their intended purpose.

Purpose of Universities

Universities aim for academic excellence and civic roles.

Meritocratic View

Admissions based solely on academic achievement.

Civic View

Admissions consider diversity and leadership potential.

Affirmative Action Debate

Disagreement on virtues to honor in admissions.

Political Framework

Modern politics focuses on securing individual rights.

Moral Education

Politics should cultivate virtuous citizens.

Rule by the Virtuous

Best rulers possess civic virtue and wisdom.

Political Animals

Humans are designed to live in communities.

Moral Virtue

Virtue developed through habit and experience.

Political Participation

Engagement shapes character and civic virtues.

Natural Slavery

Aristotle's view that some are suited to slavery.

Coercion in Slavery

If coercion is needed, natural suitability is questioned.

Liberalism vs. Aristotle

Modern justice focuses on choice, Aristotle on fit.

Justice as Fit

Consider if jobs allow human flourishing.

Social Practices

Reflect societal values and what is esteemed.

Athletic Awards Example

Criteria should be based on athletic excellence.

Flute Distribution Example

Flutes go to the best players, not the wealthy.

Tennis Court Access

Skilled players should access courts, not wealthy.

Stradivarius Violin

Should go to the best musician, not highest bidder.

Cheerleading Purpose Debate

Role of cheerleader: skills vs. crowd inspiration.

Ordered Universe

Aristotle believed everything has a purpose.

Shift in Science

Modern science abandoned inherent purpose in nature.

Good Laws

Shape character and moral habits of citizens.

Oligarchic Rule

Wealthy claim rule based on economic power.

Democratic Rule

Majority rule based on free birth entitlement.

Character Formation

Political engagement develops judgment and responsibility.

Justice and Institutions

Understanding purpose is key to justice.

Relevance in Distribution

Just distribution connects to the purpose of goods.

Social Values

Teleological reasoning helps define societal virtues.

Justice in Society

Justice tied to the purpose of roles.

Modern Labor Views

Focus on consent and fairness in work.

Aristotle's Relevance

Ideas applicable in fairness and merit debates.

Virtues Society Honors

Teleological reasoning clarifies virtues to reward.