Aristotle’s Theory of State and Classification of government

Aristotle’s Theory of State

Aristotle famously stated, “The state comes into existence for the sake of life, but continues for the sake of the good life.” By this, he emphasized that the primary function of the state is to ensure the well-being of its citizens. His arguments underscore the significance of the state on several bases:

1. On the Basis of Human Needs

A .Aristotle believed that anyone who could live without the state is either a beast or a god, but not a man. He argued that humans are not self-sufficient and require others to fulfill their needs.

B. The first human association is the family, which fulfills emotional needs but not economic ones.To meet economic needs, families formed villages. However, villages could not ensure safety or maintain law and order.Ultimately, humans created the state, which fulfills all their needs—emotional, economic, social, and legal. Hence, Aristotle described the state as “the highest of all associations.“

2. On the Basis of Logic

Aristotle asserted that the ultimate purpose of human life is attaining happiness (eudaimonia), which can only be achieved within the framework of the state. While humans may have existed before the state chronologically, Aristotle argued that life without the state was not worth living. It was only with the state’s creation that humans could lead a good life. Therefore, logically, the state precedes man in importance.

3. On a Teleological Basis

Teleology refers to purpose or destiny. Aristotle believed that it is humanity’s destiny to live under a state.

Aristotle’s Classification of Governments

Aristotle studied 158 constitutions before formulating his theory of government, earning him the title “Father of Comparative Government and Politics.” He proposed that the best form of government is polity, which is the rule of the middle class.

Aristotle also argued that change is a natural law, and governments evolve over time. He classified governments into six types, based on the number of rulers and their focus (common good or personal interest):

1. Monarchy (rule by one for the common good) → degenerates into Tyranny (rule by one for personal interest).

2. Aristocracy (rule by the few for the common good) → degenerates into Oligarchy (rule by the few for personal interest).

3. Polity (rule by the many for the common good) → degenerates into Democracy (rule by the many for personal interest).

Arguments in Support of Middle-Class/Polity Rule

Aristotle was a strong advocate of moderation, which he referred to as the “golden mean.” He believed that the middle class was best suited to govern because they embody balance and stability.

1. Avoidance of Extremes:

Aristotle argued that rich people, due to their arrogance, often commit crimes, while the poor, driven by ignorance and desperation, are also prone to criminal behavior. In contrast, the middle class is less likely to engage in crime and prefers stability within society.

2. Respect for Law and Order:

The middle class possesses reason, which enables them to value and respect law and order. They seek neither excessive power nor rebellion, making them ideal for maintaining societal harmony.

3. Historical Example

Aristotle cited the example of Solon, the great lawgiver of Athens, who came from the middle class. Solon’s balanced approach to governance and his commitment to justice demonstrated the suitability of middle-class leadership.

Thus, Aristotle concluded that the middle class is best equipped to ensure a stable and just society, making polity—the rule of the middle class—the most desirable form of government.