Summary and Analysis
Book VI:
Chapter VIII - Practical Wisdom and Politics
Summary
Political wisdom is an aspect of practical wisdom. The two have many characteristics in common, but their essence and objects are different. Practical wisdom is concerned with securing the good of the individual, political wisdom with securing that of the state. To a certain extent these goals are the same, since the individual can most easily achieve his own good in a good state, but there are important differences between the needs of the individual and the group which cause practical and political wisdom to emphasize varying approaches and ideas.
Political wisdom has two branches. One, the supreme and comprehensive form of political wisdom, is concerned with legislation and the ability to legislate well. The other is concerned with the details of administration and is itself divided into two parts, the judicial and decision-making faculties.