Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why did Aristotle describe human beings as political animals?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Justus of Ghent: Aristotle — Aristotelianism *Aristotle*, oil on wood panel by Justus of Ghent, c. 1475; in the Louvre Museum, Paris.

Aristotle described human beings as "political animals" because he believed that humans naturally form political communities to thrive and achieve their full potential. In his view, the city-state is the natural form of civilized life and the essential medium through which human capacities can be realized.12

This definition distinguishes humans from other animals through two primary gifts: the power of speech and the capacity for moral judgment. Because all nature is pervaded by purpose, Aristotle argued that humans "aim at the good," and the city-state—as the highest form of human community—exists to promote the "good life" or human flourishing.12

Consequently, Aristotle maintained that it is impossible for individuals to truly thrive outside of a community. He famously asserted that a person who lives in solitude is "either a beast or a God," emphasizing that social and political integration is a fundamental requirement for human existence.21