Lecture 3 Aristotles

Question 1

How does Plato define virtue (deugd)?

Answer 1

As an ideal, universal quality that arises from harmony within the soul.

Question 2

How does Aristotle define virtue?

Answer 2

As a practical quality, achieved by finding the right balance between extremes through experience and wisdom.

Question 3

What type of knowledge does Plato emphasize?

Answer 3

Theoretical knowledge focused on universal truths and intrinsic value.

Question 4

What type of knowledge does Aristotle emphasize?

Answer 4

Practical knowledge focused on applying wisdom in concrete situations to lead a good life.

Question 5

How does Plato approach justice?

Answer 5

As an abstract, universal concept.

Question 6

How does Aristotle approach justice?

Answer 6

By analyzing how it can be applied concretely in specific communities or situations.

Question 7

What is Aristotle’s critique of Plato’s metaphysics?

Answer 7

He rejects the separate world of Forms and focuses on the essence and being of things in the material world.

Question 8

How does Plato view knowledge in a movie analogy?

Answer 8

The movie is a shadow of the real story, which exists elsewhere, like in the mind of the director.

Question 9

How does Aristotle view knowledge in a movie analogy?

Answer 9

The movie itself contains everything needed to understand the story; no separate reality is required.

Question 10

What is Aristotle’s concept of teleology?

Answer 10

The belief that everything has a purpose (telos) and strives to fulfill its potential.

Question 11

What are the four causes in Aristotle’s teleology applied to the city-state?

Answer 11

1. Material cause: citizens,
2. Formal cause: constitution,
3. Efficient cause: self-sufficiency,
4. Final cause: living the good life in common.

Question 12

What is the ultimate goal of the city-state for Aristotle?

Answer 12

Achieving harmony and enabling a balanced, just, and well-organized society.

Question 13

How does Aristotle view the role of the city-state in achieving human potential?

Answer 13

It is a moral and ethical space where people achieve their highest potential by living together in virtue.

Question 14

What is Aristotle’s critique of Plato’s Republic?

Answer 14

He finds it too abstract and unrealistic, lacking private property and family bonds, which deprives personal engagement and happiness.

Question 15

How does Aristotle define the polis?

Answer 15

The natural and ultimate form of human organization, enabling justice, virtue, and self-realization.

Question 16

What are Aristotle’s views on oikonomia and chrematistike?

Answer 16

Oikonomia supports political life through natural, limited economic activities, while chrematistike is profit-driven and harmful to the polis.

Question 17

What is the ultimate goal of the economy in Aristotle’s view?

Answer 17

To support a just and virtuous life in the community.

Question 18

What was citizenship in the polis focused on?

Answer 18

Political equality for free, economically independent men, emphasizing active political participation and moderation.

Question 19

How does Aristotle’s concept of citizenship contrast with modern ideas?

Answer 19

Ancient citizenship was exclusive and based on political equality, while modern citizenship emphasizes economic and social equality.

Question 20

What is Aristotle’s ideal form of government?

Answer 20

Politeia, a blend of oligarchy and democracy, where power is held by a stable, moral middle class.

Question 21

How does Aristotle classify forms of government?

Answer 21

He distinguishes six forms, with good or bad variants based on the number of rulers and whose interests they serve.

Question 22

Why does Aristotle favor Politeia as the best government?

Answer 22

It distributes power among a moral middle class, maintaining balance between wealth and equality.

Question 23

How does Aristotle justify hierarchy in society?

Answer 23

He believes hierarchy is essential, with authority following function (e.g., slaves for labor, men for ruling).

Question 24

What are Aristotle’s views on the rational capacities of humans?

Answer 24

Free men have fully developed reason, women have reason without authority, children have undeveloped reason, and slaves lack deliberative faculties.