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Single Idea 2819

[from 'Politics' by Aristotle, in 24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 2. Leaders / d. Elites ]

Full Idea

The only virtue special to a ruler is practical wisdom.

Clarification

'Practical wisdom' is the Greek word 'phronesis'

Gist of Idea

The only virtue special to a ruler is practical wisdom

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1277b27)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Sinclair,T.A. /Saunders,T. [Penguin 1992], p.182


A Reaction

If a person with wide social powers is to have practical wisdom, that will require extensive knowledge, in a way that local practical wisdom does not.