Aristotle - Inequality

Everywhere, inequality is the cause of revolution - Aristotle. Comment. UPSC 2017 Paper 1A Qn2b

Aristotle’s observation that “everywhere inequality is the cause of revolution” is grounded in his belief that social and economic imbalances create instability within political systems. For Aristotle, as expressed in 'Politics', a stable and just society requires a certain degree of equity and balance, both in the distribution of wealth and in political representation. When this equilibrium is disrupted by inequality, societal harmony is threatened, giving rise to conflict and, eventually, revolution.

1. The Nature of Inequality and Justice in Aristotle’s Thought: Aristotle believed that justice is fundamental to social stability, and that justice requires proportionate equality, especially within a political community. When wealth or power becomes concentrated among a select few, inequality directly threatens justice, and where justice is absent, the likelihood of revolution increases.

2. Economic Inequality and Class Conflict: Aristotle analyzed how economic disparities fuel class conflict, which he saw as a primary driver of revolution. When the wealthy accumulate disproportionate power and the poor are marginalized, resentment builds among the lower classes, eventually leading to demands for change. Aristotle observed this dynamic in the city-states of ancient Greece, where oligarchies would often exploit the poor, creating a stark divide between the rich and the impoverished. Such conditions foster revolutionary sentiments, as the disadvantaged seek to redress the imbalances, often through radical upheaval.

3. Political Exclusion and Revolutionary Tendencies: For Aristotle, political inequality is also a potent catalyst for revolution. He argued that political systems must provide mechanisms for representation and participation for all citizens, or else face the risk of destabilization. In his view, oligarchies, which limit political power to a wealthy few, are particularly vulnerable to revolution. When individuals or groups are denied access to power and decision-making, they may turn to revolutionary means to seek representation and restore equity. In democracy, the most important cause of revolution is the unprincipled character of the popular leaders (He considers slightest of the change as revolution).

4. The Role of the Middle Class as a Stabilizing Force: According to him, middle class satisfies the concept of 'golden mean'. He believed that societies with a balanced middle class – neither excessively wealthy nor extremely poor – are more likely to maintain stability because this group tends to favor moderation and social harmony. Aristotle argued that the middle class serves as a buffer between the rich and the poor, preventing the extremes of inequality that lead to revolutionary impulses.  

5. Ideological and Psychological Underpinnings of Revolution: Aristotle understood that revolutions are not only material reactions to inequality but also stem from feelings of injustice and the desire for dignity and recognition. For Aristotle, the human drive for honor and fairness is powerful; when individuals perceive that they are treated unjustly, they become willing to disrupt the existing order. This emphasis on human psychology helps explain why people in various historical and cultural contexts respond similarly to conditions of inequality. 

In summary, Aristotle’s assertion that inequality drives revolution reflects his understanding of justice, equity, and human psychology. Political scientists and economists studying income inequality today, recognize that disparities in wealth and power remain fundamental drivers of social unrest and revolution. These thinkers build on Aristotle’s insight that material inequality is not merely a statistic but a core driver of dissatisfaction, ultimately threatening the stability of societies.

 //Professor Maxey identifies the general causes of revolutions as stated by Aristotle in his 'Politics' -

//The universal passion for privilege and prerogative which causes men to resent and rebel against condition which place other men above.


 

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