Achievement Quote by Aristotle
“. .we would have to say that hereditary succession is harmful. You may say the king, having sovereign power, will not in that case hand over to his children. But it is hard to believe that: it is a difficult achievement, which expects too much virtue of human nature.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Politics, 4th century BC
Aristotle argues that hereditary succession is problematic because it assumes virtue and competence that may not exist in heirs.
In simple terms: Hereditary succession is flawed due to unrealistic expectations of virtue.
Key Takeaway
Question the merit of inherited power.
Themes
politics
ethics
leadership
inheritance
virtue
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- government reform
- leadership selection
- education of rulers
- constitutional design
Key Concepts
monarchy
meritocracy
human nature
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- Is virtue inheritable?
- What alternatives ensure capable leadership?
A Different Perspective
May ignore practical stability of dynastic rule.
![“[I]n Great-Britain it is said that their constitution relies on the house of commons for honesty, and the lords for wisdom; whichwould be a rational reliance if honesty were to be bought with money, and if wisdom were hereditary.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/033/thomas-jefferson-43_britain_i-n-great-britain-it-is-said-that-their_143406.jpg)
