Single Idea 2830

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / B. Equalities / 1. Grounds of equality]

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.