Family and Political Community in Aristotle and Cicero

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary from Aristotle's and Cicero's teachings about family, citizenship, political responsibility, and the nature of government.

Oikos

The family or household as the basic building block of the polis, emphasized by Aristotle.

Res publica

The commonwealth or the public matter, emphasizing justice and common interest as per Cicero.

Philia

Friendship among citizens, viewed by Aristotle as essential for unity in a just polis.

Concordia

Harmony and mutual respect among citizens, emphasized by Cicero.

Virtue

Moral excellence that both Aristotle and Cicero believe leaders should cultivate for the good life.

Natural Law

A philosophy in Cicero's thought guiding political leaders towards justice.

Citizen

One who participates in the political process; defined differently by Aristotle (participation) and Cicero (legal status).

Leisure

A necessary condition for citizenship according to Aristotle, to pursue virtue.

Mixed Constitution

Cicero's model advocating a balance of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.

Polity

A regime type that Aristotle considers a mix of democracy and oligarchy.

American Constitutionalism

The influence of Aristotle's and Cicero's thoughts on the U.S. political framework.

Natural vs. Legal Foundations

The debate between Aristotle's root in human nature vs. Cicero's basis in law and reason.

Civic Duty

The responsibilities of citizens in a political community, highlighted by both thinkers.

Education

The cultivation of moral and capable citizens, essential to both Aristotle’s and Cicero’s philosophies.

Political Analysis Tools

Categories and frameworks provided by Aristotle and Cicero for understanding political life.

Checks and Balances

A principle from Cicero's mixed regime reflected in the U.S. Constitution.