PHL267H5 Lecture Notes - Lecture 26: Polyarchy, Tyrant, Oligarchy
Document Summary
An unjust law is no law at all - augustine. If there is a human law but is inconsistent with reason and the natural law, then the law has no true binding force. E. g. a human law promotes the good of one ruler or a class rather than the common good of the community. Law which is reason, is necessary to guide the conduct of all rational creatures to their good. In addition, gov. is particularly necessary for rational creatures who live in society to coordinate action and maintain unity. Need some sort of authority to promote common good. His form of government is similar to aristotle"s typology of regimes. Distinguishes between monarchy (kingship) and polyarchy (rule by some) When setting up a constitution we should pick what type of rule we want and make it as just as possible. Aristotle: those should rule who are best able to promote the happiness, virtue and good of the community.
