Aristotelian Statecraft

Although Aristotle’s Politics is rightly recognized as a seminal work in political philosophy and an indispensable source for the ancient Greek polis , it also contains an account of statecraft that is of enduring value and immediate relevance in the modern political landscape. Statecraft is the art of conducting public affairs on the basis of philosophical theorizing and empirical research. It guides statesmen and legislators in establishing and preserving constitutions best suited to given populations, in designing institutions necessary for developing the moral character and the political culture congenial to the constitution, and in carrying out effective reforms in the face of polarizing factionalism. Policy makers as well as students of contemporary politics will greatly benefit from Aristotle’s insights as articulated and examined in this volume. Included are essays on the relation between ethics and politics, the role of ideals in practical politics, jurisprudence and legislation, justice and rights, freedom and autonomy, public choice, social planning, education, and economic institutions such as property and commerce.