Aristotelian Ethics and Political Philosophy

Aristotle's approach to philosophy is distinctive as it diverges from previous philosophies. He views the world objectively, contrasting with both intrinsicism and subjectivism. Aristotle emphasizes the nature of things that provide an objective value. He identifies as an egoist and opposes both altruism, which involves helping others, and narcissism, which focuses solely on fulfilling one's own desires. Egoism, in his perspective, underscores self-interest as the foundation of morality.

In ethics, Aristotle developed a character-centered ethical framework that is not based on strict rules or collective ethics. This sets him apart from deontology, which relies on rules to determine right from wrong, and utilitarianism, which evaluates morality based on outcomes. His political philosophy advocates for an aristocracy led by morally righteous individuals, distinguishing it from the views of his predecessors who supported either tyranny or democracy.

Aristotle asserts that ethics involves acting according to reason to gain a deeper understanding of the world. To live well and lead a good life, one must comprehend their nature and establish rational principles that guide their choices and decisions. The pursuit of values entails acting for the good, with the ultimate goal of achieving happiness. In philosophy, ethics addresses the question of what it means to live a good life. Aristotelian ethics emphasizes the pursuit of values, which refers to the actions one chooses in life that aim for happiness and a meaningful existence. The worth of life stems from activities that align with reason. Aristotle posits that human happiness is derived from performing honorable actions in the best possible way; individuals live happily when they utilize reason to engage in rational activities. Reason is the mean, representing the highest virtue, while the excellence of human beings lies in their rational capabilities. This rationality functions as a craft, influencing every line of inquiry, as well as every action and decision, which ultimately fosters goodness and happiness.

Species have relative values based on their nature. Humans share many characteristics with other species in the world, such as the need for nutrition, food, and water. Like animals and plants, humans have the ability to perceive and sense their surroundings. However, the key difference in humans is the capacity for reason. We can think critically and make purposeful decisions in our lives.

Rationality enables us to act virtuously. The essence of virtue is determined by the value or happiness it brings. An egoist focuses on pursuing individual self-interest, which involves wishing well for oneself and acting for one’s own benefit. The goal of egoism is to live and preserve one’s life. In contrast, vice undermines human values. Both virtue and vice are choices we make; we cannot claim ignorance about the wrongness of actions like murder. A person is aware of the nature of things and acts accordingly. Different species have their own distinct values. However, human nature is unique in that it possesses the faculty of reason.

We are inherently political beings, relying on one another to fulfill our needs and desires. Aristotle's political philosophy addresses how we can live together in peace and harmony. He defines the purpose of government, arguing that its ultimate role is to enable the achievement of the common good while restraining anarchy. People come together and collaborate to attain self-sufficiency for all. A political society establishes constitutions to ensure sufficiency and protect against external threats. These constitutions provide the laws and guidelines necessary to govern the affairs of a group. Indeed, man is a political animal.

Anarchy refers to a state of lawlessness or a lack of security. A government is necessary to prevent anarchy and to facilitate cooperation and mutual benefit among individuals. It is argued that the ideal government should be led by morally righteous and rational individuals. If a society has one moral person, kingship is considered the most desirable form of government. If there are a few morally upright individuals, aristocracy is the appropriate form of governance. When a community consists of many moral people, the rule of the majority becomes preferable. In contrast, tyranny, oligarchy, and democracy are viewed as deviations from the ideal, as these systems often prioritize private interests over the common good.

Justice plays a crucial role in Aristotle's political philosophy. It is the virtue that ensures everyone receives what they merit or deserve. Aristotle emphasizes the theory of natural justice, which recognizes the intrinsic differences among individuals. Justice must account for these unique characteristics. Natural justice seeks to achieve impartiality, meaning that it aims to assign value based on the inherent qualities of each person. For example, women possess rational faculties, but they do not hold authoritative positions. Justice does not strive for equality among things that are fundamentally different in characteristics and nature.

The rule of law holds great significance in Aristotle’s political philosophy. He emphasizes that governance should be guided by objective laws rather than by arbitrary feelings or whims. According to Aristotle, the authority in a society should stem from the law itself, not from individuals. When governance is left to individuals, it becomes influenced by their personal desires and impromptu decisions. Aristotle argues that without laws governing a polity, there can be no true constitution, leading to unrestrained majority rule and potential anarchy.

Aristotle’s ethics highlights reason as the essential tool for human life, which is crucial for achieving happiness. Reason allows individuals to think objectively about their lives and to act in ways that promote well-being and happiness. Additionally, political philosophy seeks to restrict the government's power. The ideal form of governance is one that is guided by moral principles.