Hoi Polloi
Faculty Sponsor
Christopher Kirby, Eastern Washington University
Research Project Abstract
“Thus it is manifest that the best political community is formed by citizens of the middle class”
–Aristotle (Politics pg. 167)
For the purpose of this critique we will endeavor to see the relationship between the dwindling middle class in America and the struggle or degradation of its democratic system in light of Aristotle’s political and ethical philosophy surrounding the hoi polloi. In this brief analysis of theoretical vs. our current governmental system the goal will be to view what possible contributions there are to gain from Aristotle’s polity. Can this ancient Greek thinker provide the much needed insight into developing a system for America that empowers the hoi polloi and brings stability back to the people? The United States could indeed gain from considering the implications of not only majority rule but of a stronger more virtuous middle class.
Session Number
SS8B
Location
Weyerhaeuser 304
Abstract Number
SS8B-l
Hoi Polloi
Weyerhaeuser 304
“Thus it is manifest that the best political community is formed by citizens of the middle class”
–Aristotle (Politics pg. 167)
For the purpose of this critique we will endeavor to see the relationship between the dwindling middle class in America and the struggle or degradation of its democratic system in light of Aristotle’s political and ethical philosophy surrounding the hoi polloi. In this brief analysis of theoretical vs. our current governmental system the goal will be to view what possible contributions there are to gain from Aristotle’s polity. Can this ancient Greek thinker provide the much needed insight into developing a system for America that empowers the hoi polloi and brings stability back to the people? The United States could indeed gain from considering the implications of not only majority rule but of a stronger more virtuous middle class.
