“Therefore, the good of man must be the end of the science of politics.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
Quote
“Therefore, the good of man must be the end of the science of politics.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of politics is to promote the good of human beings. He suggests that the purpose of political science—whether through the creation of laws, the establishment of governance, or the management of society—is to foster an environment where individuals can achieve their best and most fulfilling lives. The “good of man” refers to human flourishing (or eudaimonia), which includes not only material well-being but also moral development, intellectual growth, and the pursuit of virtue. Politics, for Aristotle, should serve as a means to create the conditions necessary for people to live well, exercising their potential as rational, moral, and social beings.
This idea remains highly relevant in modern political thought. Today, we often view the role of government and policy as being focused not just on maintaining order, but on creating conditions that allow individuals to thrive. Policies that promote education, healthcare, social welfare, and justice can be seen as efforts to enable individuals to live meaningful lives and contribute to the collective good of society. Similarly, political leaders are often judged on how well they promote the well-being of their citizens, ensuring that not just their physical needs are met, but that they also have the opportunity to grow, learn, and live virtuously.
For example, policies that address income inequality, access to education, or civil rights are aimed at creating a society where individuals can achieve the good life. This can also be seen in the importance of ethical governance, where the goal is not to simply rule, but to create a society that fosters individual freedom, justice, and opportunity. Aristotle’s view reminds us that the foundation of politics is not just the pursuit of power or control, but the promotion of the well-being and flourishing of every individual in society.
