Show How Aristotle’s Organic Theory of the State Differs from
Plato’s Idealistic Theory
“Aristotle has kicked me just as a colt kicks its mother,” Plato
This reflects the deep intellectual departure his student took from his
teachings. Although Aristotle was trained in Plato’s Academy, he did not
follow his mentor blindly. As he famously said, “Plato is dear to me, but
dearer still is truth.” These words capture the essence of their
philosophical divide. Plato’s ideal state is built on abstract reason and
theoretical perfection, ruled by philosopher-kings in a strictly ordered
society. In contrast, Aristotle approaches the state as a living, evolving
organism—something rooted in nature, human relationships, and
practical experience. This essay will explore how Aristotle’s organic
theory of the state fundamentally differs from Plato’s idealistic theory,
both in assumptions about human nature and in their views on politics
and governance.
1. Philosophical Foundations: Idealism vs Realism
At the heart of their difference is how each philosopher understands
reality.
Plato believed in the Theory of Forms, asserting that the material
world is an imperfect reflection of perfect, unchanging ideas. The
ideal state, then, is not drawn from real-life observations but from
reasoning about the nature of justice and virtue.
“The ideal state is a product of rational design, governed by
philosopher-kings based on principles of justice and virtue.” –
Plato
Aristotle, in contrast, was a realist and empiricist. He believed
that knowledge comes from experience and observation, not
abstract thought. His political theory is based on studying actual
constitutions and how people live in communities.
“The state arises naturally from human sociability…” – Aristotle
2. Origin and Purpose of the State
Plato sees the state as a rational construct to mirror justice and achieve
the good life through strict structure and harmony. Aristotle sees the
state as organic and natural, forming gradually as human relationships
become more complex.
Plato:
The state is formed to achieve justice by organizing society into
three rigid classes: rulers, auxiliaries, and producers.
It is idealistic, aiming to create a perfect, unchanging society.
Communal living (shared property and family) among the guardian
class is proposed to eliminate conflict and promote unity.
Aristotle:
The state evolves naturally—from family → village → polis—
because humans are social and political animals.
The purpose of the state is to help individuals achieve their telos
(purpose), which is eudaimonia (flourishing or the good life).
Aristotle emphasizes the organic unity of the state, where
individuals are like organs in a body.
“He who is without a city, by nature and not by accident, is either
a beast or a god.” – Aristotle
“The state comes into being for the sake of life but exists for the
sake of the good life.” – Aristotle
3. Structure of the State: Rigid Hierarchy vs Natural
Interdependence
Plato:
Society is divided strictly by innate abilities into classes.
People do not change roles; justice means everyone "minding their
own business."
Leadership belongs only to philosopher-kings, individuals trained
to understand true knowledge.
“Until philosophers are kings, or the kings and princes of this
world have the spirit and power of philosophy... there will be no
end to the troubles of states.” – Plato
Aristotle:
Views the state as a living organism with each citizen playing a
different role, like organs in a body.
Emphasizes natural hierarchies, but these are based on function,
not rigid classes.
All parts of society—rulers, citizens, laborers—are necessary for
the whole to function.
“The state is by nature prior to the family and to the individual.” –
Aristotle
“Virtue is acquired through habituation and practice…” – Aristotle
4. Governance: Philosopher-King vs Rule of Law and Middle Class
Plato’s political system is governed by a wise elite, above the law.
Aristotle rejects this as unrealistic.
Plato:
Rule by philosopher-kings trained in truth and reason.
Law is less important than the judgment of the wise.
Aristotle:
Supports rule of law over rule by individuals.
Prefers a polity—a mixed government led by the educated middle
class.
Warns against relying on perfect rulers: “there are no perfect
men.”
“The collective wisdom of the people often surpasses that of even
the wisest individual.” – Aristotle
“Ruler has to be worldly wise than to be wise in the world of
ideas.” – Aristotle
5. Property and Unity: Communism vs Private Ownership
Plato:
Advocates communism of property, wives, and children among
the guardian class.
Believes shared property fosters unity and eliminates selfishness.
Aristotle:
Strongly criticizes Plato’s communism.
Argues that shared responsibility leads to lack of care and
confusion over duty.
Defends private property as natural and virtuous when used
responsibly.
“It is not possession, but the misuse of property that causes
problems.” – Aristotle (paraphrased)
6. Ethics and Virtue
Plato:
Believes virtue is knowledge; wrongdoing stems from ignorance.
The ideal state is designed to cultivate wisdom in its rulers.
Aristotle:
Sees virtue as a habit, developed through practice and the “golden
mean.”
Ethics are closely tied to politics and daily life in the polis.
7. Practicality vs Perfection
Plato’s theory is visionary but detached from reality. Aristotle criticizes it
for being utopian and impractical.
Aristotle studied real constitutions (e.g., Sparta, Athens) and
emphasized what was achievable.
He believed the best state is one that reflects the existing
character of its citizens and aims for gradual improvement.
“The benefit of change will be less than the loss likely to result if
men fall into the habit of disobeying the government.” – Aristotle
Comparison Table: Plato vs Aristotle
Aspect Plato (Idealism) Aristotle (Realism)
View of Theory of Forms (abstract Material world is real and
Reality ideal) observable
Method Rationalism Empiricism
Origin of Designed for justice and Evolves naturally from human
State harmony needs
Purpose of Achieve justice through Enable eudaimonia
State structure (flourishing)
Educated middle class under
Rulers Philosopher-kings
rule of law
Structure Rigid hierarchy Organic interdependence
Property Communism among Private property with moral
Aspect Plato (Idealism) Aristotle (Realism)
guardians use
Enforced through shared Comes from shared purpose
Unity
family/property and participation
Ethics Virtue = Knowledge Virtue = Habit and practice
Art Deceptive and harmful Cathartic and meaningful
Practicality Idealistic and utopian Grounded and achievable
Conclusion
Aristotle’s organic theory of the state offers a sharp and realistic contrast
to Plato’s idealistic vision. Where Plato imagines a perfect society ruled
by reason and strict hierarchy, Aristotle focuses on how real people live
and what kind of political community helps them grow. The polis, for
Aristotle, is a natural extension of human life, not a structure imposed
from above. His emphasis on law, moderation, private property, and the
middle class reflects a commitment to balancing ideals with reality. While
Plato aims for perfection, Aristotle aims for the best possible state
within human limits—one that nurtures virtue, justice, and shared
purpose.
