Full Idea
Virtue is the definitive principle of aristocracy, as wealth is of oligarchy, and freedom of democracy. …each of these is grounds for claiming equality.
Gist of Idea
We can claim an equal right to aristocratic virtue, as well as to wealth or freedom
Source
Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1294a11)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.260
A Reaction
By 'aristocratic' Aristotle means living at a high level of virtue (unlike oligarchs, who are just rich). Hence we can all aspire to be aristocrats.