Aristotle's Politics, masterfully translated by Benjamin Jowett, stands as a cornerstone of political philosophy. This enduring work delves into the fundamental principles of governance, citizenship, and the ideal state, offering timeless insights into the nature of power and justice. Written centuries ago, its examination of different forms of government – from democracy to tyranny – remains strikingly relevant to contemporary political discourse. Jowett’s accessible translation ensures that Aristotle’s profound observations on the organization of society and the pursuit of the good life are readily available to modern readers, making Politics an essential text for anyone interested in understanding the historical roots of political thought and its enduring impact on our world.
Review POLITICS
Receiving my copy of Aristotle's Politics, translated by Benjamin Jowett, was a genuinely delightful experience. From the moment I opened the carefully packaged box from Best and Fastest Books, Inc. in NJ, I was impressed. The hardcover book itself was in remarkably good condition, even exceeding my expectations based on the description. The seller clearly took great care in its handling, and the prompt delivery was a welcome bonus. Reading the varied reviews before purchasing, I was prepared for a range of opinions on the translation itself, and this proved true!
The book's physical state – a lovely, well-preserved volume – contributed significantly to the overall positive feeling. Holding this piece of history, a classic work that's shaped political thought for millennia, felt incredibly special. The weight of the book, the feel of the pages, even the subtle scent of aged paper, all combined to create a tangible connection to Aristotle and his enduring ideas. It's a book you can genuinely appreciate as both a valuable historical artifact and a profound intellectual exploration.
Now, about the content itself… I can understand the mixed reviews. Some found Jowett's translation outdated, and I can certainly see that point. The language, while clear and accessible, undeniably reflects its Victorian origins. There's a certain formality and deliberate cadence that might feel a bit distant to the modern reader accustomed to more concise and direct prose. This is a classic case of the trade-offs inherent in using a historically significant translation; you gain the authority and established reputation of a masterful translator, but possibly at the expense of a more contemporary feel. In my case, I found the richness of Jowett's language added to the experience, imbuing the text with a certain gravitas that a more modern rendering might lack. It certainly enhanced the sense of delving into a historical document of immense importance.
However, the criticisms regarding the text's outdated nature are, to some extent, valid. Aristotle's observations on governance and society were, of course, formed within a very different historical context. Some of his assumptions and conclusions might seem naive or even problematic from a modern perspective. Yet, this isn't a flaw of the book itself, but a necessary consideration when engaging with any classical text. The value of Politics lies not simply in accepting its pronouncements as absolute truths, but in understanding the intellectual framework from which they arose, and using them as a springboard for critical analysis and contemporary discussion. It prompts vital questions about the nature of power, justice, and the ideal society – questions that remain profoundly relevant today, even if the answers might need significant updating.
Ultimately, my experience with this edition of Aristotle's Politics was overwhelmingly positive. The excellent condition of the book itself, combined with the engaging (if somewhat dated) translation, made for a rewarding intellectual journey. It's a book I will return to again and again, both for the historical significance of its physical form and the enduring intellectual power of its content. And yes, I'd wholeheartedly recommend Best and Fastest Books, Inc. to other readers seeking a well-preserved copy of this seminal work.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.55 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 219
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- BOOK ONE
- BOOK TWO
- BOOK THREE
- BOOK FOUR
- BOOK FIVE
- BOOK SIX
- BOOK SEVEN
- BOOK EIGHT
Preview Book
