Single Idea 22577

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 1. Purpose of a State]

Full Idea

There should first be agreement about what the most choiceworthy life is for (one might almost say) everyone, and then determine whether it is the same or distinct for all communally as for each separately.

Gist of Idea

What is the best life for everyone, and is that a communal or an individual problem?

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1323a19)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Reeve,C.D.C. [Hackett 2017], p.158


A Reaction

Presumably 'almost' because slaves don't make the cut. But the inclusiveness is hugely important, and I take his second question to be the debate between communitarians and liberals. Communists and libertarians might get a look in.