Quote of the day by Aristotle: 'Whosoever is delighted in solitude, is either a wild beast or a god'; thoughts on solitude and loneliness

Aristotle in his quote says to exist entirely outside of society—and to find pleasure in that state—suggests a nature that is either sub-human (a beast) or super-human (a god). This philosophy serves as a cornerstone for Western political and social theory, emphasizing that community is essential for achieving Eudaimonia or human flourishing.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• Aristotle in his quote says to exist entirely outside of society—and to find pleasure in that state—suggests a nature that is either sub-human (a beast) or super-human (a god).
• This philosophy serves as a cornerstone for Western political and social theory, emphasizing that community is essential for achieving Eudaimonia or human flourishing.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• as a cornerstone for Western political and social theory, emphasizing that community is essential for achieving Eudaimonia or human flourishing. Aristotle in his quote says to exist entirely outside of society—and to…
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Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• Aristotle in his quote says to exist entirely outside of society—and to find pleasure in that state—suggests a nature that is either sub-human (a beast) or super-human (a god).
• This philosophy serves as a cornerstone for Western political and social theory, emphasizing that community is essential for achieving Eudaimonia or human flourishing.