Politics Summary

In Politics, Aristotle studies how human beings organise themselves into families, villages and states. Unlike Plato, he does not concentrate only on an imaginary ideal state; he examines actual constitutions and asks which forms of government work under different social conditions. Aristotle argues that human beings naturally live in political communities because they possess speech, moral judgment and a sense of justice. He classifies governments according to who rules and whose interest they serve. Monarchy, aristocracy and constitutional government may serve the common good, while tyranny, oligarchy and extreme democracy may serve only particular groups. Aristotle generally favours a balanced constitution supported by a strong middle class. Some of his views, especially concerning slavery and women, belong to the inequalities of the ancient world and are widely rejected today.

• Politics is natural: Aristotle believes that human beings cannot achieve a complete and good life in isolation; they need an organised political community.

• The purpose of the state: A state exists not only to prevent crime or support trade but also to help citizens live morally good and fulfilling lives.

• Citizenship requires participation: A citizen is not merely someone living in a country. Citizenship involves taking part in public decisions and the administration of justice.

• Good and corrupt governments: A government is good when rulers serve the common interest and corrupt when they use power mainly for themselves.

• Monarchy and tyranny: Monarchy is rule by one person for the common good; tyranny is rule by one person for private benefit.

• Aristocracy and oligarchy: Aristocracy is rule by a virtuous few, while oligarchy is rule by wealthy people protecting their own economic interests.

• Polity and extreme democracy: Aristotle favours constitutional government in which many citizens rule under law, rather than uncontrolled majority rule.

• Importance of the middle class: A large middle class reduces conflict because its members are neither extremely rich nor extremely poor.

• Law should govern: Stable government requires established laws rather than the changing wishes of individual rulers.

• Famous quotation: “Man is naturally a political animal.”