Ownership inspires virtue, justice, and unity
As an institution, private property has been critical in Western society and political thought. Modern capitalists defend private property merely on the grounds of efficiency. Socialists, on the other hand, tend to critique it.
Capitalists’ defense of private property rarely extends beyond a calculation of economic benefits. Many assert simply that there is no viable alternative to individual ownership. Private property, they contend, is just the best option within a set of subpar options. This argument, with its pessimistic tone, hardly inspires much love for the concept of private ownership.
But throughout history, numerous thinkers have robustly defended and justified the institution of private property: Cicero of ancient Rome, Thomas Aquinas of medieval Europe, and John Locke of the early modern period. The first extensive defense of private property comes from Aristotle in the fourth century B.C., and he believed there were more reasons than efficiency alone to endorse it.
Who was Aristotle?
Aristotle was a polymath who wrote extensively on ethics, logic, metaphysics, biology, astronomy, rhetoric, and more. In the 13th century, Thomas Aquinas referred to Aristotle as “The Philosopher,” demonstrating the level of respect Aristotle commanded. To this day, he is considered one of the most influential philosophers to ever live.
On the subject of private ownership, Aristotle believed external goods — such as property and wealth — could help people live a virtuous life. Unlike his teacher, Plato, who recommended strict limits on wealth, Aristotle argued that “happiness also requires external goods in addition, as we said; for it is impossible, or at least not easy, to play a noble part unless furnished with the necessary equipment.” This view is the foundation of Aristotle’s positive stance on private ownership.
If people are sharing something, everyone is more likely to assume that someone else is taking care of it.
Aristotle’s arguments in favor of private property have shaped debate on this topic throughout history. In…
Private property has been a cornerstone of Western society, and discussions around its virtues and critiques have endured for centuries. From the ancient era to modern times, various thinkers like Aristotle, Thomas Aquinas, and John Locke have delved into the essence of ownership and its implications. Let's unpack the core concepts touched upon in the article you mentioned:
Private Property and its Defense
The article outlines contrasting views between capitalists and socialists regarding private property. Capitalists tend to emphasize its economic efficiency, often asserting it as the best among subpar alternatives. This utilitarian defense lacks a deeper appreciation for the broader virtues of ownership.
Aristotle's Perspective
Aristotle, a polymath revered for his contributions to ethics, logic, and metaphysics, believed that external goods, including property and wealth, were instrumental in leading a virtuous life. Unlike Plato, who proposed strict limits on wealth, Aristotle argued that such possessions were necessary for a noble life. He highlighted the role of external goods in facilitating virtues and contributing to individual happiness.
Historical Defenses of Private Property
- Cicero, Thomas Aquinas, and John Locke: Like Aristotle, these thinkers provided robust justifications for private property. Cicero, a Roman philosopher, and orator, defended it within the context of natural law. Thomas Aquinas, a prominent medieval theologian, referred to Aristotle as "The Philosopher" and incorporated his ideas into Christian theology. John Locke, an Enlightenment philosopher, believed in the natural right to property and its connection to labor.
Virtue, Justice, and Unity
- Virtue: Aristotle proposed that external goods contribute to leading a virtuous life, a view that differs from Plato's emphasis on limitations.
- Justice: Discussions on private property often touch upon justice, particularly regarding equitable access to resources and the fairness of ownership distribution.
- Unity: The article hints at the potential for shared responsibility when individuals collectively own something, emphasizing a shared sense of stewardship.
Understanding these historical perspectives and philosophical underpinnings is crucial in comprehending the multifaceted nature of ownership. The article points out that the debate on private property, shaped by Aristotle's arguments, continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about ownership, virtue, and societal unity.
