Question

Aristotle calls the human being a "political animal". This statement means that:

Answer 1

Aristotle's description of humans as 'political animals' suggests that living in a political society and engaging in politics is essential to achieving human potential according to our nature. He proposed that virtuous governance and political participation are necessary for the development of rationality and virtue. The ideal government promotes the common good and includes active citizenship and respect for the rule of law.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Aristotle calls the human being a "political animal," he emphasizes that humans are inherently social and that their highest potential is achieved through political engagement. According to Aristotle, good governance is essential for individuals to develop their rational and virtuous capacities fully. A society that encourages political participation through rational debate, discussion, and judgment about the common good enables its citizens to fulfill their true potential.

Aristotle identified three virtuous forms of government, namely monarchy, aristocracy, and polity, as well as three deviant forms, which are tyranny, oligarchy, and democracy when it degenerates into mob rule. His view was that political rights should be reserved for those contributing to the political community, with the best form of government being one that serves the public interest and embraces a balance of wealth distribution amongst leaders.

Furthermore, Aristotle believed that a well-structured political society is an essential part of living a virtuous and good life. His idea of the Politeia implies that the rule of law and a strong middle class are critical for a harmonious and prosperous state. This setting provides the necessary environment for citizens to acquire and practice virtue, which is at the heart of Aristotle's ethical philosophy.

Answer 2

Aristotle calls humans a "political animal" because he sees our natural inclination to engage in politics and form communities as essential for achieving our full potential. This concept plays a significant role in his political philosophy, where virtuous governments encourage citizens to participate in rational debate for the common good, thus allowing individuals to lead a good and virtuous life.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Aristotle calls the human being a "political animal," he's emphasizing our innate social behavior and the significance of political structures in our lives. For Aristotle, political engagement was crucial for a person to achieve their highest potential. This idea is rooted in his belief that humans, due to their rational capabilities, naturally seek to form communities governed by political systems. He saw these systems as a platform for citizens to participate in the exercise of political power through rational debate and discussion about the common good.

Aristotle distinguished between virtuous governments, like monarchy, aristocracy, and polity, and deviant ones, such as tyranny and oligarchy. In his ideal form of government, the Politeia, a societal structure exists where citizens, particularly the middle class, are actively involved in governance aimed at securing the public good, reflecting the community's interests, and adhering to the rule of law.

Moreover, Aristotle's concept of a political animal extends beyond just the acts of governance; it encompasses human nature and the quest for a good life. According to him, living a virtuous life and striving for moral excellence requires a community setting where one can be educated, practice virtues, and pursue societal betterment. Thus, being a political animal is fundamental to human existence and flourishing according to one's nature.