What Aristotle Knew About Oligarchy That We Forgot

How do the wealthy few come to rule, and why does it matter? Aristotle tackled these questions 2300 years ago, and his answers are still eye-opening today.

In this video, we explore Aristotle's book "Politics," where he breaks down different types of government, including oligarchy - when the rich call the shots. Aristotle didn't just theorize; he studied 158 constitutions from Greek city-states and beyond, giving us deep insights into how governments really work.

Following our last video on tyranny, we now turn to oligarchy, another system Aristotle saw as problematic. We'll examine how leadership based on merit can gradually shift into rule by the wealthy, and the various forms this can take. Aristotle's keen observations help us spot the signs of wealth steering the ship of state, even in seemingly democratic systems.

We'll also discuss Aristotle's thoughts on the fall of oligarchies. How did these regimes topple if money speaks louder than the voices of ordinary citizens? Aristotle's analysis of how money and power intertwine is as relevant now as it was in ancient Greece. His insights shed light on political dynamics that continue to shape our world today.

TImestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:02 Aristotle's 6 Forms of Government
2:28 From Aristocracy to Oligarchy: The Perversion
3:48 Characteristics, Types, and Rise of Oligarchies
8:30 Signs You Might Be Living in an Oligarchy
11:53 When Oligarchies Fall
13:50 Conclusion & Outro

[Talladarr]

"Imagine a hypothetical government."

Proceeds to describe the modern American governmental system.

[josiah]

It's never enough for them to just enjoy their wealth. They always seek to dominate others too.

[IdleDrifter]

What they say, "It's a threat to our democracy."
What they mean, "It's a threat to our oligarchy."

[kadesmith]

It’s almost as if Aristotle wrote the script for the oligarchic takeover of America today, the similarities are stunning

[joeblow]

I am American. You described the United States perfectly.

[hhlek]

The “Signs You Might Be Living in an Oligarchy “ section of this video is brilliant. More and more people need to understand what is pointed to here.

[Michele-zk]

I was taught this in college. That was 50 years ago. Since it’s no longer taught, it’s apparent that the oligarchs have been working towards their goals over the years. Most likely so the populace wouldn’t notice. And here we are today.

[HonestFred]

Bernie Sander have been saying this since 2016 but people didnt listen properly because Americans didnt understand the defintion of oligarchy.

[darrincambridge]

"It's a big club, and you ain't in it!" - George Carlin 😂

[Mr.PeabodyTheSkeptic]

'Imagine', 'picture a scenario', 'hypothetically' brilliantly used tongue-n- cheek.

[debmercer]

This should be mandatory viewing for every person in America right now...

[creightonsnypes]

This cogent, clear exposition of Aristotle's insights has done more for mybtrue understandingnof contemporary circumstances in th USA than countless hours of news and analysis. I never grasped as fully until viewing this video and its successor, the full truth of the phrase "Those who are ignorant of history are doomed to repeat it." I joined the channel immediately. Thank you for a superb synthesis in such a compact form.

[CohnmanTheBudbarian]

Parallels to my society you ask? Buddy, you just described our society on earth in 2024, a big corporate oligarchy, and that must stop.

[curiousponderings]

If only we had been taught such stuff in school, now we have the opportunity to bring the old gems back into awareness.

[hagancs]

Perfect description of the US today. My sis explained it perfectly: we are all cheering for our perceived team. We cheer when “we” win. What we don’t comprehend: we aren’t even in the game. 😕

[emilschattner]

Thank you for your lesson in Oligarchy. I always assumed America isn't a democracy, but rather an oligarchy. Haven't heard a more fitting description about the political makeup of America and it's oligarchy system ever. Truly appreciate it!

[CrniWuk]

The president : A billionaire. Paid by billionaires. Surrounded by millionairs.

United States of Oligarchy.

[MACROPARTICLE]

"Imagine a hypothetical society..." We don't have to imagine it, we're experiencing it right here right now.

[savvageorge]

I find it interesting how many modern politicians praise democracy with their speeches but with their actions they clearly endorse oligarchy. Maybe they view democracy as an unthreatening alternative which can be easily controlled? I've never heard any politician discuss the benefits of monarchy or aristocracy.

[fredasavahl]

Thank you for describing exactly what is happening in the United States today.