Aristotle’s political theory is a branch of his philosophy that examines the nature and purpose of

political communities and the best forms of government. Aristotle critiques Plato’s Republic and
proposes his own theory of how a city should be organized to promote the common good and
individual happiness. Aristotle analyzes different types of constitutions and the factors that
influence their stability or decay. He also discusses the role of virtue and morality in human life
and the relation between ethics and politics.

Here is a brief summary of Aristotle’s political theory based on the web search results:

 Aristotle begins by stating that all associations are formed with the aim of achieving some
good, and that the most general association is the city-state, which contains all other
associations. He argues that human beings are political by nature and that they can only
achieve happiness by living as citizens in a state12.
 Aristotle then examines the economic relations that hold within a city-state, such as the
institution of private property, which he defends as natural and beneficial, and the
institution of slavery, which he defends as necessary and justified for some people. He also
criticizes excessive capitalism and advocates for a moderate and balanced way of life 12.
 Aristotle reviews various theoretical and actual models of political organization, such as
Plato’s Republic and Laws, which he finds unrealistic and flawed, and the constitutions of
Sparta, Crete, and Carthage, which he finds defective in some aspects. He also classifies
different kinds of constitutions according to whether they are just or unjust, and whether
they are ruled by one, few, or many. He identifies six types of constitutions: monarchy,
tyranny, aristocracy, oligarchy, polity, and democracy12.
 Aristotle proposes a principle of distributive justice, according to which benefits should be
conferred upon different citizens differently, depending on their contribution to the well-
being of the state. He also suggests that a polity, which is a mixed constitution that
combines elements of aristocracy and democracy, is probably the best form of government
for most states, as it is least susceptible to corruption and factionalism. He also gives higher
authority to the laws than to the governing body12.
 Aristotle turns from his theoretical speculations to a practical examination of political
institutions as they exist in the Greek world. He observes that the needs of city-states vary
greatly depending on their wealth, population, class distribution, and so on. He examines
the different varieties of states and constitutions and makes a number of general
recommendations on how to preserve or reform them12.

If you want to learn more about Aristotle’s political theory, you can check out these sources:

 Politics Summary and Study Guide

 Bing Search Results
 Aristotle - Politics, Philosophy, Logic
 Selected Works of Aristotle Politics Summary & Analysis
 Politics Book I Summary & Analysis
TOPICS

I’m glad you are interested in Aristotle’s political theory. It is a fascinating and influential branch
of his philosophy that examines the nature and purpose of political communities and the best
forms of government. Here are some possible topics that you could discuss in class:

 The concept of the common good and how it relates to the happiness and virtue of
individual citizens. How does Aristotle define the common good and what are its
implications for political life? How does he criticize Plato’s idea of the good as a
transcendent and universal form? 123
 The classification and evaluation of different types of constitutions. How does Aristotle
distinguish between just and unjust constitutions, and between rule by one, few, or many?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of constitution, and what are the
causes of their stability or decay? Why does Aristotle prefer a polity, which is a mixed
constitution that combines elements of aristocracy and democracy? 123
 The principle of distributive justice and its application to political institutions. How does
Aristotle define justice as giving each person what they deserve according to their
contribution to the well-being of the state? How does he apply this principle to the
distribution of wealth, honors, offices, and education among citizens? How does he balance
the claims of merit and equality in his theory of justice? 123
 The role of education in shaping the character and habits of citizens. How does Aristotle
view education as a means of instilling virtue and fostering civic participation in the young?
What are the aims and methods of education that he recommends for different stages of
life? How does he relate education to the specific needs and circumstances of each city-
state? 123

I hope this helps you prepare for your class discussion. If you want to learn more about Aristotle’s
political theory, you can check out these sources:

 Politics Summary and Study Guide

 Selected Works of Aristotle Politics Summary & Analysis
 Bing Search Results
 An Introduction to the Political Theory of Aristotle