Aristotle's attached to the idea of humans as political creatures (that live in community with each other), so he focuses less on socio-economic status than on our standing as moral beings. Aristotle recognizes a social system that ranges from the noble (in terms of virtue and wealth) to the corrupt (lacking moral virtue, base). Class may be based on birth and wealth, but happiness (which is based on virtue) is not, except incidentally.
Aristotle's observations of society in Nicomachean Ethics are based on his thoughts about justice. The justice pertaining to class is "distributive" and requires that each person receive not the same thing, but the goods (i.e. money, honor, position) proportionate to his contribution to the common good.
It's a system based first on merit, which can be problematic on a bunch of levels. But Aristotle imagines this system working optimally to create a just and equitable society that's conducive to human happiness.
Questions About Society and Class
- Why does Aristotle say that humans are "political beings"?
- In what ways does Aristotle believe that wealth is advantageous in the pursuit of happiness? In what ways is it an impediment?
- What virtues are limited to certain classes of people? Why?
- What is "distributive justice"?
Chew on This
While a great souled person might accomplish much and have a powerful position in society, Aristotle doesn't think that this type of person is the best member of the community.
Aristotle accepts that justice is something earned by our level of contribution to society and not an inherent human right.