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The man who is isolated, who is unable to share in the…

“The man who is isolated, who is unable to share in the benefits of political association, or has no need to share because he is already self-sufficient, is no part of the polis, and must therefore be either a beast or a god.” quote by Aristotle
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““The man who is isolated, who is unable to share in the benefits of political association, or has no need to share because he is already self-sufficient, is no part of the polis, and must therefore be either a beast or a god.””

Aristotle

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A self‑sufficient person who does not engage in civic life is outside the community, reduced to either a mere animal or a divine being.

In simple terms: Living apart from society makes one neither citizen nor fully human.

Key Takeaway

Engage in community to avoid isolation.

Themes

civic duty human nature politics

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • community service
  • public debate
  • local activism

Key Concepts

social contract political philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you feel you belong to your community?
  • What responsibilities come with citizenship?
A Different Perspective

Isolation may be a personal choice, not always a flaw.

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