Aristotle
“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” – Aristotle
Aristotle
Aristotle (384–322 BCE) stands as one of the most influential thinkers in Western intellectual history. Born in Stagira in northern Greece, he entered Plato’s Academy in Athens as a young man and remained there for nearly twenty years. While deeply shaped by Platonic philosophy, Aristotle ultimately developed his own distinct system of thought, grounded in observation, logic, and the study of cause and purpose. His work spans an extraordinary range of subjects, including ethics, politics, metaphysics, biology, rhetoric, logic, psychology, and literary theory. This breadth reflects his belief that knowledge is interconnected and that understanding the world requires careful analysis of both its physical forms and underlying principles.
After leaving the Academy, Aristotle spent time travelling and conducting research before becoming tutor to the young Alexander the Great. This period deepened his exposure to wider cultures and scientific specimens, further informing his natural studies. Later, he founded his own school in Athens, the Lyceum, where he taught, wrote, and led a community of scholars known as the Peripatetics. Much of what survives of his work comes from lecture notes and treatises used in this setting, rather than polished publications.
Aristotle’s legacy rests on his distinctive method: the combination of empirical observation with structured reasoning. He sought to classify the natural world, analyse human behaviour, and examine the foundations of knowledge itself. His writings on ethics and politics remain central to philosophical study, particularly his ideas about the “Golden Mean”, virtue, and the role of community in human flourishing. His influence has extended across centuries, shaping medieval scholarship, Enlightenment thought, modern science, and contemporary political discourse. Aristotle’s work continues to inspire discussions about how to live well, how societies should be organised, and how the pursuit of knowledge shapes human progress.
The Body Of Work
Nicomachean Ethics
This foundational treatise explores the nature of virtue, happiness, and moral reasoning. Aristotle argues that true fulfilment arises from living in accordance with reason and cultivating balanced character traits. His concept of the “Golden Mean” remains one of the most influential ethical ideas in Western thought.
Politics
Expanding on ideas from his ethical writings, Politics examines how societies should be structured to promote the common good. Aristotle analyses various forms of government and argues that a just political system supports human flourishing. His emphasis on civic participation continues to influence political theory.
Metaphysics
In this complex work, Aristotle investigates the nature of reality, existence, and causation. He develops key concepts such as substance, potentiality, and actuality, laying the foundation for centuries of metaphysical inquiry. The text remains central to philosophical debates about what it means for something to “be”.
Poetics
Poetics offers one of the earliest surviving analyses of literature and drama. Aristotle breaks down the components of tragedy, explaining how plot, character, and catharsis shape an effective narrative. His observations still inform literary studies, theatre criticism, and storytelling practices today.
Biology and Natural Studies
Aristotle conducted extensive research into animals, classification, and anatomy. His biological works represent some of the earliest systematic attempts to catalogue the natural world. Though not always scientifically accurate by modern standards, his methods laid important groundwork for empirical science.
Big Takeaways
1. Balance Builds a Better Life
Aristotle’s “Golden Mean” teaches that virtue often lies between extremes. A balanced approach to choices, emotions, and habits can guide people towards healthier and more sustainable ways of living.
2. Knowledge Is Gained Through Experience
He believed that understanding begins with observing the world and learning from concrete examples. This encourages a mindset of curiosity, patience, and careful attention to detail when forming opinions or making decisions.
3. Community Shapes Us
Aristotle viewed humans as naturally social beings who thrive within supportive communities. His message highlights the importance of active engagement, shared responsibility, and meaningful relationships in creating a fulfilling life.
4. Good Habits Create Character
He argued that virtues are developed through repeated actions rather than abstract thinking alone. This insight suggests that consistency, practice, and small daily choices play a central role in shaping personal character.
5. Purpose Gives Life Direction
Aristotle emphasised the idea of telos, or purpose, as a guiding force behind human actions. Recognising one’s deeper motivations can help individuals set clearer goals and make choices aligned with long-term fulfilment.