Politics

Book 5 explores why constitutions change. Aristotle suggests that, despite the best of intentions, constitutions do not always align with the reality of a city’s needs and make-up. Democracies are constructed from the idea that all free-born citizens are equal, while oligarchies are born from the idea that certain classes of people are innately unequal. Aristotle argues that both forms of government fail to represent “absolute justice” (179). This lack of justice contributes to constitutional conflict, resulting in factions. The philosopher points to three sources for factional conflict. Although the field of psychology did not yet exist when Aristotle presented these theories, the first source represents a psychological catalyst: an obsession with either equality or inequality within the mind can contribute to conflict. The second represents a desire for the products granted to those in power, namely “profit and honour” (182). The third source stems from feeling (fear, discontent) and behavior (negligence, scandal).

In many instances, tiny factors can influence a major divide. Aristotle points to an instance in Syracuse where the government became divided after two political leaders argued over a love affair. Strife must be dealt with swiftly and immediately to curb larger political upheaval.