Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers of ancient Greece, had profound thoughts on politics, governance, and the role of individuals within a state. His views on citizenship remain relevant and thought-provoking, even today. In his seminal work Politics, Aristotle explores the idea of what it means to be a citizen, the responsibilities tied to citizenship, and its connection to the functioning of the state.
This topic delves into Aristotle’s perspective on citizenship, highlighting key concepts, responsibilities, and its implications for modern society.
What Does Aristotle Mean by Citizenship?
Defining the Citizen in Aristotle’s Terms
Aristotle defines a citizen as someone who actively participates in the governance of the state. In his view, citizenship is not merely about living in a particular place or having legal status but about contributing to the political community. For Aristotle, the essence of citizenship lies in participation.
A citizen, as Aristotle explains, is someone who “shares in the administration of justice and in offices.” In simpler terms, a true citizen is involved in the decision-making processes of the state, whether through holding public office or engaging in collective deliberation.
Citizenship and the Polis
The Importance of the Polis
In Aristotle’s philosophy, the polis (city-state) is central to human life. He believed that humans are naturally political beings who thrive within organized communities. The polis is more than a geographical entity-it is a social and political organization where individuals come together for mutual benefit.
For Aristotle, the polis provides a platform where citizens can achieve virtue and live a good life. Citizenship, therefore, is deeply tied to the functioning of the polis.
Who Qualifies as a Citizen?
In Aristotle’s time, not everyone living in the polis qualified as a citizen. Citizenship was exclusive, and it depended on factors like birth, social standing, and participation in public affairs.
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Free Men: Only free men of the polis were considered citizens. Slaves, women, and foreigners were excluded from citizenship.
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Active Participation: Being a citizen required active engagement in the polis, such as voting or holding office. Simply residing in the polis was not enough to earn the status of a citizen.
Citizenship and Virtue
The Role of Virtue in Aristotle’s Citizenship
Aristotle emphasizes that a good citizen must also be a virtuous citizen. Virtue, in his philosophy, is about striving for excellence in character and actions. A citizen should not only act in their own interest but also prioritize the well-being of the community.
A virtuous citizen contributes to the polis by practicing justice, moderation, and wisdom. Aristotle argues that the moral character of individuals is essential for the success of the state. Without virtuous citizens, a state cannot flourish.
Citizenship and the Common Good
For Aristotle, citizenship is closely tied to the concept of the common good. A true citizen acts not only for personal gain but also for the benefit of the community. This idea underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual respect within the polis. The polis exists, according to Aristotle, so that citizens can achieve a higher quality of life through shared purpose and cooperation.
The Relationship Between Citizenship and Governance
Citizenship in Different Types of Governments
Aristotle identifies three types of government: monarchy, aristocracy, and polity. Each form has its own interpretation of citizenship. For example:
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In a Monarchy: Citizenship may be limited, as the king or queen holds ultimate authority.
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In an Aristocracy: Only the elite, who are deemed virtuous and capable, are considered citizens.
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In a Polity: Citizenship is more inclusive, allowing greater participation from the population.
Aristotle critiques extreme forms of governance, such as tyranny or oligarchy, where citizenship is either entirely suppressed or restricted to a select few for selfish purposes.
Equality Among Citizens
Aristotle believed that equality is a key principle of citizenship. However, this equality does not mean sameness. Instead, Aristotle argues for proportional equality, where individuals contribute and receive benefits according to their abilities and roles within the polis. For example, those with greater responsibility in governance may be entitled to greater recognition, but they must also act for the common good.
Responsibilities of Citizens
Active Engagement
Aristotle underscores the responsibility of citizens to actively engage in the political life of the polis. This includes participating in debates, voting, and even holding public office. In his view, disengagement weakens the state and undermines its purpose.
Pursuit of Justice
Citizens are expected to uphold and promote justice. Aristotle sees justice as a cornerstone of any successful political community. Citizens must strive to create a fair and equitable society that benefits all members of the polis.
Contribution to the Community
Every citizen has a duty to contribute positively to the community. Whether through governance, military service, or other forms of participation, citizens are responsible for the stability and progress of the polis.
Exclusion From Citizenship
Who Is Not a Citizen?
Aristotle’s view of citizenship is exclusive by modern standards. He explicitly excludes certain groups:
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Slaves: Considered property rather than participants in the polis.
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Women: Aristotle believed that women lacked the capacity for active political participation, a view reflective of his time.
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Foreigners: Non-residents and those without deep ties to the polis were not considered citizens.
Criticism of Aristotle’s Exclusions
Modern readers often criticize Aristotle’s restrictive definition of citizenship, as it denies rights and responsibilities to significant portions of the population. Today, citizenship is viewed as a more inclusive concept that transcends the limitations of Aristotle’s era.
Modern Relevance of Aristotelian Citizenship
Lessons for Today
Although Aristotle’s definition of citizenship may feel outdated, many of his ideas remain relevant. His emphasis on active participation, virtue, and the common good continues to inspire democratic societies. Modern citizens can draw valuable lessons from Aristotle’s philosophy, such as:
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Engaging in Civic Life: Voting, community service, and political activism are ways to embody Aristotle’s ideal of active participation.
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Pursuing Virtue: Striving for moral excellence can lead to better decision-making and stronger communities.
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Focusing on the Common Good: Balancing personal interests with the needs of the community fosters unity and progress.
Citizenship in Modern Democracies
In contemporary democracies, citizenship is more inclusive, encompassing individuals regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status. While the criteria for citizenship have evolved, Aristotle’s core principles-such as participation and the pursuit of justice-remain foundational.
From an Aristotelian perspective, citizenship is not just a legal status but an active role that individuals play within the political community. A true citizen, in Aristotle’s eyes, is one who participates in governance, pursues virtue, and prioritizes the common good. While his ideas reflect the societal norms of ancient Greece, they continue to provide valuable insights into the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship today.
By embodying the principles of Aristotelian citizenship-engagement, virtue, and justice-modern individuals can contribute to the flourishing of their own communities, just as Aristotle envisioned for the polis.