Single Idea 22573

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / D. Justice / 1. Basis of justice]

Full Idea

If what is just is not the same in all constitutions, there must be differences in the virtue of justice as well.

Gist of Idea

The virtue of justice may be relative to a particular constitution

Source

Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1309a37)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Reeve,C.D.C. [Hackett 2017], p.128


A Reaction

This problem has recently arisen when the state of China took full control of the westernised colony of Hong Kong. Liberals look for a more absolute concept of justice. What is justice in a slave colony?

Related Idea

Idea 22572 Officers should like the constitution, be capable, and have appropriate virtues and justice [Aristotle]