Aristotle discusses various forms of government in his work "Politics," and while he recognizes both the strengths and weaknesses of democracy, he sees it as a preferable system under certain conditions. Here are three reasons why Aristotle might consider democracy to be one of the better forms of government:
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Inclusivity and Participation: Aristotle values the idea of government by the many, as it allows for broader participation in decision-making. He argues that a government that includes more people can be more representative of the interests and needs of the entire community, rather than being dominated by a few elite individuals. In a democratic setup, citizens have the opportunity to engage in political processes, which can lead to more equitable governance.
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Moderation and Balance: Aristotle believes that democracies can foster a balance of power. In a well-structured democracy, diverse opinions and interests are moderated through dialogue and debate, which can prevent the extremes of tyranny (rule by one) or oligarchy (rule by a few) that can arise in other systems. By allowing the many to govern, democracy can mitigate the risks of extreme forms of governance and promote stability.
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Promotion of the Common Good: Aristotle argues that the purpose of government should be to promote the common good, and he sees democracy as having this potential when it is based on virtues such as justice and wisdom among its citizens. Unlike oligarchies which may prioritize the interests of a wealthy few, democracies can be oriented toward collective welfare and the development of virtuous citizens who contribute positively to society.
It's important to note that Aristotle had a nuanced view of democracy, recognizing that it could lead to mob rule or demagoguery without the presence of virtue and wisdom among the populace. Thus, while he acknowledges the merits of democracy, he also advocates for a mixed government that combines elements of democracy with aristocratic and monarchical principles to achieve the best governance.