Changes of Political Thought

A detailed Summary of Changes of Political Thought

The study of western political thought has endured a drastic change throughout the centuries. This shift occurred through the queries of ancient philosophical minds such as Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, and St. Augustine. Two examples of great importance are the inequality of gender and the role of power distributed and issued within the state.

Plato believed all people, men and women alike are created equal; this notion runs parallel to our modern day Constitution. He states "if we are to set women to the same tasks as men, we must teach them the same things," they must endure "training for the mind and body and also be taught the art of war" (149). Plato developed a role known as a guardian or a soldier to protect over the people. He relates this to the fact that if watchdogs can be both male and female why can't guardians.

Aristotle is known as Plato's greatest pupil. He was strongly influenced by the teachings of Plato but was also known for ridiculing some of his ways. His view of women is drastically different from those of Plato. By nature, he says, women are to be dominated by men. Aristotle refers to women as imperfect men. He acknowledges that women can possess reason, but can not obtain the same stature

Augustine defined the Christian rule of the Church over state. In order to have the ideal government, Augustine believed law should co-relate to that of the Church. He believed firstly that the state should promote peace and prosperity among the people. Secondly, that it should reflect only true religion. Lastly, the government should work to establish commonly accepted rules for acquiring the necessities of life. God has doctrine over man, therefore; he has doctrine over state.

St. Augustine took the Stoics ideas of equality one step further. His views pertain to that of the Christian approach. Augustine believed that people were all equals within the City of God. Spiritually women were identical to men, but physically they shared many differences. This idea of equality holds true even to present day.

During the time of the Stoics, many important philosophers gave their opinions about the issues of authority within the state. As stated previously, Zeno was a strong believer of the brotherhood among all. The Stoics notion of natural law granted all people within the state, of any class, to be offered the ability to share their opinion of government. Another philosopher, Polibius, agreed with Aristotle's concept of mixed constitution.

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Approximate Word count = 850
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Politics

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Changes of Political Thought

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