Ethical foundations and the purposes of the state in Aristotle

Abstract

According to Aristotle, joining a political community (a State) belongs to human nature. Its purpose cannot but contribute to the common good of the individuals that constitute it, whose end is virtue. The State promulgates laws that govern the very practices of different virtues. Justice, as the customary framework for practicing law implies the willingness to obey the laws as well as equality for all. In this sense, justice encompasses all the virtues. The law is an application of the Constitution that defines both the type of leaders and the purpose of the State, criterion by which to evaluate the different types of Constitution. A Constitution is fair inasmuch as it promotes the common good and not the ruler's good, although it does not do so in ideal terms. In fact, virtue is a middle state between extremes, so that the Constitution regulates what is possible for the majority of citizens and States, aiming at equality between their members. In effect, there are three groups in each State, the very rich, the very poor and those between them. The first two groups, driven by ambition or jealousy, cause unrest and divisions. The best Constitution is that which contributes to the growth of the “middle class”, as a balancing factor in the State's decisions.