Aristotle's Political Theory Flashcards

Flashcards on Aristotle's Political Theory

Aristotle

A towering figure in Western political thought, born in 384 BCE in Stagira, and a student of Plato.

Aristotle's View on State

The state is the highest good, and the individual citizen comes into existence only in order to achieve justice and the common good.

Natural Social Animal

Humans have a natural inclination to live in communities, forming organized societies, to pursue a common good.

Purpose of the State

The state exists for the promotion of the common good and the well-being of its citizens.

Monarchy

Rule by one person (a king or monarch) who governs for the common good.

Aristocracy

True aristocracy is rule by the virtuous and wise, governing for the common good.

Polity

Represents rule by the many, typically the middle class, with the aim of the common good.

Citizenship and Political Participation

Citizen should actively engage in the political life of the state. This includes deliberation, decision-making, and holding public office.

The Mean and Virtue

Balance, or the 'golden mean,' in political life. Virtue lies between excess and deficiency.

Tyranny

Rule by a self-serving monarch.

Oligarchy

Rule by a wealthy elite

Democracy

Rule by the self-interested masses

Common Good

The primary purpose of government is the promotion of the common good, which encompasses the well-being and happiness of all citizens.

Equality Before the Law

Equality before the law. In his ideal state, all citizens, regardless of their social status or wealth, should be subject to the same laws.

Constitutional Government

Government where there are established rules and laws that govern the state's operations and the behavior of its citizens.

Natural Hierarchy

Society is naturally hierarchical, with some individuals being born to rule and others to be ruled.

Protection and Provision

Slaves receive protection and provision from their masters, ensuring their basic needs were met.

Guidance and Education

Slaves can receive guidance and education from their masters, which he considered beneficial for their moral and intellectual development.

Proportional Equality

Aristotle believed in what he called proportional equality or equity.

Distributive Justice

Distributing honors, wealth, and other goods in society in a way that is proportionate to individuals' virtues or merits.

Causes of Revolution

Revolutions typically occur due to an imbalance or injustice within a political system.

Aristotle's concept of Justice

Equality and Fairness: Aristotle believed that justice involved treating equals equally and unequals unequally, but in proportion to their relevant differences.

Citizenship

Citizenship, for Aristotle, is the highest form of membership in a political community, distinguishing citizens from non-citizens who lack certain political rights and privileges.

Aristotle’s Critique to Plato

A student of Plato, offered a comprehensive critique of his teacher's political philosophy, including Plato's conception of the ideal state, communism, the role of philosopher-kings, and the nature of justice.

Polity

Aristotle proposed the concept of 'polity,' which is a mixed constitution that combines elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy

Plato

Plato is the great enemy of every form of vulgar materialism.