Aristotle argues that active participation in governance is essential for a just state. However, he also limits citizenship to property-owning men. Can Aristotle’s participatory model be reconciled with modern ideas of universal suffrage and inclusivity?

28th February 202516th August 2025 ~ Polity Prober

Aristotle's model of citizenship emphasizes active political participation yet excludes women, slaves, and laborers, limiting governance to property-owning men. This raises questions regarding its applicability to modern democracy, which advocates universal suffrage and inclusivity. While Aristotle's focus on civic engagement remains relevant, his exclusionary principles contradict contemporary democratic values.