Aristotle's Political Philosophy: Man, Polis, and Virtue

Aristotle's Conception of Man: Body, Soul, and Rationality

For Aristotle, man is a composite of body and soul. The body is identified with matter and potentiality, while the soul (the life principle) is identified with form and actuality. The union between soul and body is substantial, forming a synolon. The human soul, primarily identified with rational knowledge, also encompasses vegetative and sensitive functions.

Man as a Political Animal and the Polis

Aristotle posits that man develops fully within the city (polis), as it is the environment where he achieves moral development and flourishes. Hence, he famously defines man as a political animal (zoon politikon), emphasizing that morality is intrinsically linked to the political sphere. Man needs to belong to a community to flourish and fully actualize his potential. The polis is the natural form of human life, the ideal structure for social and state existence.

Aristotle's approach was, in part, an attempt to curb the decline of the city-state. He proposed a large middle class as the foundation of the political constitution of the city. His ideal is a happy city, a vision distinct from Plato's. Aristotle argues that the city is a political community inherent to man's nature, as man is a political animal with an innate tendency to achieve perfection within the polis.

The Evolution and Purpose of the State

For Aristotle, the State (polis) is the whole; the individual, family, and village are merely its parts. The origin of the state is a process of natural evolution:

• First, the family and household.
• Next, the tribe and village.
• Finally, the state (polis).

This perspective is also metaphysical: nature created man to live in society, endowing him with logos (reason and the capacity for dialogue). The ultimate purpose of the State, or City, is Happiness (eudaimonia).

Happiness, Virtue, and the Ideal Constitution

The City is a dynamic entity, striving to achieve a specific purpose: the happiness of its citizens. Happiness (eudaimonia) is defined as living according to virtue. Therefore, politics has a clear ethical content: virtue is the ultimate end of the city.

Aristotle suggested that the best form of constitution involves a large middle class with an aristocratic element in government. This structure would represent a compromise between aristocracy and democracy. However, he noted that happiness (eudaimonia) was attainable only for free citizens, explicitly excluding slaves, women, artisans, farmers, and merchants from this full participation.