Aristotle Aristotle

Politics Aristotle Aristotle

Politics: A Treatise on Government is an essential work of political philosophy by Aristotle, in which he examines politics and human society by stages.

A landmark treatise in Aristotelian philosophy, this text is divided into a total of eight books, each of which deliver an analysis into a specific element of political activity in the wider society.

Book I contains Aristotle's famous discussion of the political community which develops in cities. The famous phrase 'political animal' is coined in support of Aristotle's belief that working in the public sector to advance society is the highest form of virtue a person can aspire to.

Book II examines various types of governmental regimes - here, Aristotle draws upon several texts, in particular that of The Republic by Plato, wherein a discussion of ruling governments - democratic, oligarchic, and tyrannic - takes place.

Book III discusses the nature of citizenship in the society. Aristotle narrows down the attributes and qualities that an inhabitant of a given city must possess in order to be counted as a true, participating citizen.

Book IV further examines political theories in discussing types of government and the nature and function of constitutions in society.

Book V looks at how constitutions may evolve or develop with time, and how change may suddenly occur within a society should a revolution occur. The inherent instability lurking behind many tyrannical societies is also drawn upon to support Aristotle's statements.

Book VI compares democratic and oligarchic constitutions, noting the essential differences and how they affect the manner in which said societies are governed.

Book VII discusses how a state might aspire to becoming idea, in how happiness and living standards can be maximized. The location of cities, their populations and their position in the pecking order of other territories is discussed. The qualities possessed by its citizens, and the institutions of marriage and the bearing of children is also examined.

Book VIII talks about the way in which education can best serve both those who are learners and the wider society.