John Lockes and Aristotles Understanding of Moral Life Essay

John Lockes and Aristotles Understanding of Moral Life - Essay Example Similarities and differences between John Locke and Aristotle’s understanding of moral life and model of governance While both thinkers focus on extralegal action, their intention is deepen mankind’s understanding of the competing to political theory. According to the Lockean view, self-preservation, liberties and estates causes men to support the legitimacy of government. On the other hand, Aristotle suggests that, the wants and interests of mankind must be secured, for political life to exist. However, Aristotle also explains that every regime aims for a common good and exist for the sake of living well. On another note, Locke reiterates that, human organizations exist in a state of nature where they have different ends, ties and bound (Maloy, 2009). This position is similar to Aristotle’s; however, he does not distinguish what is social or political. Aristotle considers social organizations to be part of the political community. Further, Aristotle asserts that men cannot live without the polis or government. Aristotle considers political association to be the most sovereign. Furt her, he views politics as part and parcel of human life. Politics according to Aristotle plays a role in fulfilling all aspects of human needs (Edmundson, 2013). Conversely, Locke differentiates social and political and suggests that while men are social by nature, their politics is not guided by nature. Locke further states that government is also not natural and its role is limited when it comes to serving human interests.