DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 11
1. What are some important aspects of Aristotle's view of human nature? Try to answer with
direct reference to excerpts from the text.
According to Aristotle, the essence of human nature is the desire to achieve happiness using
the application of reason, the development of virtues, community living, and guiding one's
actions towards their final objective, or telos. The ethical and philosophical framework of
Aristotle is based on these elements taken to one another.
2. Why does Aristotle believe that Plato's ideas about the need to hold property in common are
misguided? Try to answer with reference to at least one excerpt from the text.
Plato's belief in communal property is denounced by Aristotle, who highlights the unavoidable
disadvantages of this kind of organization. He states that shared ownership prevents people
from taking care of their property and discourages personal accountability. According to
Aristotle, private property ownership is more in line with human nature since it encourages
individual investment, accountability, and the desire to improve and manage one's belongings.
According to him, appreciating each person's freedom and drive is crucial because it
encourages a sense of success and positive leadership, both of which eventually contribute to a
growing society.
