Aristotle believed that the best form of government was a polity, or constitutional government, where virtuous and capable individuals from the middle class ruled in the interest of the common good. He believed that a combination of democracy and aristocracy was the ideal form of government, as it would prevent the excesses and deficiencies of either extreme.
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According to Aristotle, the most qualified individuals to rule are those who possess practical wisdom and virtue. These rulers must have the best interests of the community at heart and possess a natural ability to lead with fairness and excellence. Aristotle believed that these individuals, known as "phronimos," should govern based on reason and what is morally right for the entire society.
Aristotle was critical of democracy, viewing it as a flawed system that could lead to mob rule and the tyranny of the majority. He believed that a better form of government would be a mixed constitution that combines elements of democracy, aristocracy, and monarchy to prevent these pitfalls.
Aristotle's typology of government includes monarchy (rule by one), aristocracy (rule by the virtuous few), and polity (rule by the many or the middle class). He also discusses their corrupt forms: tyranny, oligarchy, and democracy, respectively.
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Aristotle believed that a tyrant becomes troublesome because they rule for their own benefit rather than for the common good of society. They often act unjustly, oppress their subjects, and rule with fear and cruelty, leading to unrest and instability in the state.