To let them share in the highest offices is to take a…
“To let them share in the highest offices is to take a risk; inevitably, their unjust standards will cause them to commit injustice, and their lack of judgement will lead them into error. On the other hand there is a risk in not giving them a share, and in their non participation, for when there are many who have no property and no honours they inevitably constitute a huge hostile element in the state. But it can still remain open to them to participate in deliberating and judging.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Balancing inclusion of the poor in governance: inclusion them risk injustice, but exclusion creates hostility; open participation mitigates extremes.
In simple terms: Including the poor can cause bias, yet excluding them creates unrest; allow participation.
Key Takeaway
Allow broader involvement while safeguarding fairness.
Themes
politics
justice
inclusion
risk
social stability
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislative bodies
- community councils
- public policy design
- social welfare programs
Key Concepts
Aristotelian ethics
social contract
governance
class dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions ensure fair judgment from all participants?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of power by any class?
A Different Perspective
Risk of corruption if the poor lack education; elite resistance to sharing power.