Single Idea 22561

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 4. External Goods / c. Wealth]

Full Idea

The rich seem to possess already the things for the sake of which unjust people do injustice, which is why the rich are called both noble and good and notable.

Gist of Idea

The rich are seen as noble, because they don't need to commit crimes

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1293b38)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Reeve,C.D.C. [Hackett 2017], p.94


A Reaction

This doesn't seem (at least in popular lore) to apply to those who acquired their wealth by unjust means, because by then injustice has become a habit.