Question A1

In The Republic, Plato suggests that the best form of government is aristocracy type of

government headed by the privileged class. In the aristocratic government, the best become the

rulers and govern for the interest of others. Power is only for the few who are the rulers. Plato

suggests that aristocratic governments are ideal since they serve justice for all individuals. He

denotes that the best form of government manifests the human soul.

Question A2

Aristocracy is not the best form of government as per Aristotle since it bases on an individual’s

merit to govern. Aristotle describes the polity, which is a combination of the oligarchy and

democracy, as the best form of government. He denotes that polity is ideal since it provides an

alternative for a more stable constitution. The polity gets governed by conventions, which are

man-made laws. Polity provides ruling with laws together with justice, which are essential for

overcoming natural limits.

Question A3

Polybius develops the mixed constitution to build up on Aristotle’s constitution as the best form

of governing. Polybius views the mixed constitution as a reflection of the biological cycles.

Polybius denoted that there are cycles of governments which resonate around the three forms of

governance highlighted by Aristotle. These three forms of governance entail monarchy,

democracy, and aristocracy. Polybius adds that preserving liberty entails separating powers.

Question A4