A Political Community

For decades, one of the most controversial topics has been the nature and purpose of a political community and why do we, as humans enter into one. The two philosophers that are most known for their very distinct ideas of what a democracy should consist of are Aristotle and John Locke. A few of the numerous questions that emerge throughout this debatable matter are as follows: Why do human beings enter into a political community? What is the purpose of a political community? and lastly, What are the characteristics of a good/best political society? Although both parties offer very persuasive arguments, they differ in many ways. Aristotle emphasizes the unity of a community in constant search of a virtuous and noble life for its citizens, while Locke stresses equality and the rights of individuals in terms on liberty and possessions and claims that one who benefits from society, one is incurred to its obligations. Based on all the readings, I agree with Aristotle’s view of an ideal political community because a community with a cooperative and united search for happiness and progression in virtuous activities is far more superior to me than the undeniable materialistic ways of a Lockean democracy.

It is understood that one feels the need to be a part of a political society because it gives a sense of protection and control. A community is sustained by its laws assuring all citizens of fair treatment and protecting them in their many different vocations and responsibilities from unjust treatment by other citizens, with the help of private organizations, and the government itself. Aristotle claims that is it human nature to belong to a community, to have that unity and connection with other human beings striving for survival, vir...

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...me of his claims. I do however, see how making a society worship material objects more than anything else can easily lead for a society to become corrupted into a greedy and deceitful democracy in which an individuals existence is based upon their financial stability. Conversely, an Aristotelian democracy’s intentions most likely or will always remain honest because just as the “uneducated” will better the community by doing what they innately succeed at, the ones who truly understand the purpose of society will be the ones who lead the government; the “educated.” Although it may be human nature for one to want to gain as much economically as possible, as Locke claims, the best and most effective way each community can function is for each individual to remember to share a small amount of their unique individuality and strive for the enhancement of their community!