Question

Critically examine Aristotle's view on revolution ​

Answer 1

Answer:

Aristotle’s Theory of Revolution:

Aristotle explained in great detail the theory of revolution. It is his study of nearly 158 constitutions that helped him understand the implications of revolutions on a politi­cal system. In his work, Politics, he discussed at length all about revolutions. Based on his study, Aristotle gave a scientific analysis and expert treatment to the subject of revolu­tions. He gave a very broad meaning to the term ‘revolution’ which meant two things to him.

Firstly, it implies any major or minor change in the constitution such as a change in monarchy or oligarchy and so on. Secondly, it implies a change in the ruling power even though it did not lead to a change in the government or the constitution. He further stated that a revolution could be either direct or indirect, thereby affecting a particular institution.

Causes of Revolution:

According to Aristotle, the two categories of causes of revolution are general and par­ticular.

General Causes:

According to Aristotle, revolutions take place when the political order fails to correspond to the distribution of property and hence tensions arise in the class structure, eventually leading to revolutions. Arguments over justice are at the heart of the revolution.

Generally speaking, the cause of revolution is a desire on the part of those who are devoid of virtue and who are motivated by an urge to possess property, which is in the name of their opponents. In other words, the cause of upheaval is inequality.

Aristotle listed certain general causes of revolutions that affect all types of govern­ments and states. They are: the mental state or feelings of those who revolt; the motive, which they desire to fulfill; the immediate source or occasion of revolutionary outburst.

The mental state is nothing but a desire for equality and it is a state of disequilibrium. Another clear objective of those rebel or revolt is to gain honour. Apart from these, Aristotle provided some more reasons, which are psychological as well as political in nature that lead to revolutions. As far as psychological factors are concerned.

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