It is clearly better that property should be private, but the use of it common and the special business of the legislator is to create in men this benevolent disposition.
In this passage, Aristotle argues that the ideal society would be one where property is private, but the use of it is common. He believes that the legislator's role is to cultivate this benevolent disposition in people, which would lead to a harmonious and prosperous community.
Aristotle's idea is that private property can coexist with a sense of community and shared responsibility. He sees the legislator as a key player in shaping this balance.
This quote is from Aristotle's work 'Politics', which was written around 350 BCE. At that time, ancient Greek city-states were grappling with issues of property ownership and social hierarchy.
Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and student of Plato. He was born in 384 BCE and died in 322 BCE. He made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy, science, and ethics, and his works had a profound impact on Western thought.
Aristotle's idea of balancing private property with common use has implications for modern societies. For example, it could inform policies around land use, taxation, and social welfare.
Some critics argue that Aristotle's emphasis on private property and individual responsibility can be seen as elitist and out of touch with the needs of marginalized groups.