Unit-1 Aristotle Theory of Slavery SHITIO SHITIRI
Asst. Professor
Department of Political Science
Course Code: POL/H/C-5 (BA 3rd Semester)
Course Title: Classical Political Philosophy
Aristotle developed a theory of slavery that is primarily outlined in his works "Politics"
and "Nicomachean Ethics." Aristotle said “A slave is a living possession and property of his
master”. In his theory of slavery, Aristotle attempts to justify the institution of slavery as a natural
and necessary part of society, reflecting the prevailing views of his time.
Aristotle justifies slavery on grounds of expediency. During his time slavery played a vital
role in the maintenance and operation of the Greek economy. Aristotle said incase slavery is
abolish or denounce the whole Greek social system would collapse resulting in social disorder and
chaos in Greek city life.
Basic features of Aristotle's theory of slavery
Aristotle provided a complex and multifaceted justification for the institution of slavery in
ancient Greece. The key features of Aristotle's justification for slavery are on the following
grounds: -
1. Natural Hierarchy: Aristotle believed in a natural hierarchy among human beings, with
some individuals being naturally superior to others. Aristotle said “some individuals are
born to be slaves, while others are born to be masters”. He argued that some people
possess the qualities necessary for rational thought and decision-making, making them fit
to be masters, while others lack these qualities and are better suited for a life of servitude.
This natural hierarchy is based on differences in intelligence, virtue, and capability among
individuals. He based his theory on the concept of natural inequality among people.
2. Slavery as a Natural Institution: Aristotle viewed slavery as a natural and necessary
institution for the functioning of society. He saw slaves as living tools or instruments,
existing solely to serve the needs and interests of their masters. He believed that slaves lack
the rational capacity for self-governance and are therefore dependent on the guidance and
control of their masters. Slavery, in his view, allowed for a division of labor, with slaves
performing menial tasks while the ruling class focused on governance and intellectual
pursuits (Political leadership).
1 UNITY COLLEGE DIMAPUR 2023
Asst. Professor
Department of Political Science
Course Code: POL/H/C-5 (BA 3rd Semester)
Course Title: Classical Political Philosophy
Aristotle developed a theory of slavery that is primarily outlined in his works "Politics"
and "Nicomachean Ethics." Aristotle said “A slave is a living possession and property of his
master”. In his theory of slavery, Aristotle attempts to justify the institution of slavery as a natural
and necessary part of society, reflecting the prevailing views of his time.
Aristotle justifies slavery on grounds of expediency. During his time slavery played a vital
role in the maintenance and operation of the Greek economy. Aristotle said incase slavery is
abolish or denounce the whole Greek social system would collapse resulting in social disorder and
chaos in Greek city life.
Basic features of Aristotle's theory of slavery
Aristotle provided a complex and multifaceted justification for the institution of slavery in
ancient Greece. The key features of Aristotle's justification for slavery are on the following
grounds: -
1. Natural Hierarchy: Aristotle believed in a natural hierarchy among human beings, with
some individuals being naturally superior to others. Aristotle said “some individuals are
born to be slaves, while others are born to be masters”. He argued that some people
possess the qualities necessary for rational thought and decision-making, making them fit
to be masters, while others lack these qualities and are better suited for a life of servitude.
This natural hierarchy is based on differences in intelligence, virtue, and capability among
individuals. He based his theory on the concept of natural inequality among people.
2. Slavery as a Natural Institution: Aristotle viewed slavery as a natural and necessary
institution for the functioning of society. He saw slaves as living tools or instruments,
existing solely to serve the needs and interests of their masters. He believed that slaves lack
the rational capacity for self-governance and are therefore dependent on the guidance and
control of their masters. Slavery, in his view, allowed for a division of labor, with slaves
performing menial tasks while the ruling class focused on governance and intellectual
pursuits (Political leadership).
1 UNITY COLLEGE DIMAPUR 2023
