Final answer:
Aristotle viewed democracy as a defective system that favors the majority, potentially at the expense of the common good. He advocated for a balanced government with a strong middle class, echoing in modern political thought. Current philosophy generally supports democracy for its long-term benefits and responsiveness to the people's needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing whether Aristotle's view of democracy is accurate, it is important to note that Aristotle describes democracy as a system of government that, while intending to represent the majority, can neglect the interests of the whole in favor of those of the majority. In Aristotle's analysis, democracy risks turning into a rule that privileges the many at the expense of the rest, potentially ignoring the common good.
Aristotle suggested that the best form of government would be a Politeia, where political power is balanced across economic classes, particularly with a strong middle class acting as the backbone of society. His observations echo through modern political thought, emphasizing that a thriving middle class is essential for a well-functioning democracy. This reflects Aristotle's concerns that extreme wealth disparities can undermine the common good.