“Anyone who is going to make a proper inquiry about the best form of constitution must first determine what mode of life is most to be desired” (Pol, Bk 7, Ch 1,1323a, 14). In order to determine the most ideal system of government, Aristotle suggests that one must first delineate what is the most desirable life; whether that would be living as a citizen under a kingship, a philosopher under a tyranny, or a ruler under a constitutional government. According to Aristotle, a kingship is a monarchic rule, where one exceptional individual governs in the best interest of all. However, it is noted that a kingship is difficult to achieve, as individuals are vulnerable to corruption. Furthermore, tyranny is the result of a deteriorated kingship, and is often ruled by an individual that
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First, kingship was once a typical form of governance due to modest population sizes. Due to meagre population, it was uncommon that there were men of excellence that were fit to rule. Hence, delegating kingship was a straightforward process. However, as populations expanded, men of goodness were abundant, resulting in the establishment of constitutions (Pol, Bk 3, Ch 15, 1286b, 8). Second, kingship is a form of governance that warrants adequate skepticism. For, when kings are appointed, what decrees exist that limit or guide a king’s decision to hand over the crown to his children? Because the king is the ultimate ruler, there exist no limitations. While it is expected that men of goodness would not appoint their children as their successors if circumstances do not allow, it would be against one’s human nature to deny succession to their own kin. Therefore, the city risks the prospect of being governed by an inadequate king due to kingship (Pol, Bk 3, Ch 15, 1286b, 22). For these reasons, citizenship under a kingship is volatile and
First, kingship was once a typical form of governance due to modest population sizes. Due to meagre population, it was uncommon that there were men of excellence that were fit to rule. Hence, delegating kingship was a straightforward process. However, as populations expanded, men of goodness were abundant, resulting in the establishment of constitutions (Pol, Bk 3, Ch 15, 1286b, 8). Second, kingship is a form of governance that warrants adequate skepticism. For, when kings are appointed, what decrees exist that limit or guide a king’s decision to hand over the crown to his children? Because the king is the ultimate ruler, there exist no limitations. While it is expected that men of goodness would not appoint their children as their successors if circumstances do not allow, it would be against one’s human nature to deny succession to their own kin. Therefore, the city risks the prospect of being governed by an inadequate king due to kingship (Pol, Bk 3, Ch 15, 1286b, 22). For these reasons, citizenship under a kingship is volatile and