Single Idea 2973

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 3. Constitutions]

Full Idea

If we wish to investigate the best constitution appropriately, we must first decide what is the most desirable life.

Gist of Idea

We must decide the most desirable human life before designing a constitution

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1323a14)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.391


A Reaction

He takes this for granted, and it sounds right, but it is firmly contradicted by modern liberals (e.g. Rawls), who say the good life is for individuals to decide.