Topic > A Political Community - 1171

For decades, one of the most controversial topics has been the nature and purpose of a political community and why we, as humans, join one. The two philosophers best known for their very distinct ideas about what a democracy should consist of are Aristotle and John Locke. Some of the many questions that arise in this controversial matter are the following: Why do human beings enter into a political community? What is the purpose of a political community? and finally: what are the characteristics of a good/better political society? While both parties offer very convincing arguments, they differ in many ways. Aristotle emphasizes the unity of a community constantly seeking a virtuous and noble life for its citizens, while Locke emphasizes the equality and rights of individuals in terms of freedom and possessions and argues that those who benefit from society are obligated to its obligations . Based on all readings, I agree with Aristotle's vision of an ideal political community because a community with a cooperative and united pursuit of happiness and progress in virtuous pursuits is to me far more superior than the undeniable materialistic ways of a Lockean democracy. understood that we feel the need to be part of a political society because it gives a sense of protection and control. A community is supported by its laws that ensure all citizens are treated fairly and protect them in their many different vocations and responsibilities from unjust treatment by other citizens, with the help of private organizations, and by the government itself. Aristotle argues that it is human nature to belong to a community, to have that unity and connection with other human beings struggling for survival, because of his claims. However, I see how making a society worship material objects more than anything else can easily lead to a society corrupting into a greedy, deceitful democracy where an individual's existence is based on their financial stability. In contrast, the intentions of an Aristotelian democracy will most likely or always remain honest because just as the “uneducated” will improve the community by doing what they are innately good at, those who truly understand the purpose of society will be the ones who lead the government; the “educated”. While it may be human nature to want to gain as much as possible economically, as Locke argues, the best and most effective way in which any community can function is for each individual to remember to share a small part of their unique individuality and fight to achieve this goal. the betterment of their community!