Source Analysis: Aristotle 1

Aristotle (384–322 B.C.E.) is considered one of the greatest philosophers of all time. His works shaped centuries of philosophy from Late Antiquity through the Renaissance, and even today continue to be studied by historians and philosophers. The excerpt here, from his book The Politics, was written around 350 BC in the context of the Greek city-state, a time when citizens were expected to participate in public life.

Excerpt from The Politics, "Who Should Rule?"

“There is this to be said for the Many. Each of them by himself may not be of a good quality; but when they all come together it is possible that they may surpass - collectively and as a body, although not individually - the quality of the few best. Feasts to which many contribute may excel those provided at one man’s expense. In the same way, when there are many, each can bring his share of goodness and morality. . . . This is the reason why the Many are also better judges of music and the writings of poets: some appreciate one part, some another, and all together appreciate all.”