The Aristocratic Method
The Aristocratic Method (Ancient Greek: ἀριστοκρατία μέθοδος, aristokratía méthodos, lit. “argument of divine entitlement, circular justification, and obfuscation”) is a rhetorical and philosophical system attributed to under-discussed political theorist Aristocrates, applying Aristotelian logic, metaphysics, and ethics to demonstrate that aristocracy was the highest expression of reason, virtue, and order. His work resonated deeply with the ruling classes, earning him a devoted following among nobles who sought intellectual justification for their dominance.
Ballsac, Roderick. The Foundations of Aristocratic Thought: An Inquiry into the Natural Order of Privilege. Oxford: Exalted Press, 1723. “Through selective interpretation of classical philosophy, Aristocrates constructed an irrefutable defense of hierarchy, presenting wealth and privilege not as social constructs but as apparent logical necessities embedded in nature itself.”
Aristocrates vs. Aristotle
Aristocrates built his framework upon Aristotle’s core teachings, strategically adapting them to reinforce elite rule. Below are the primary Aristotelian concepts Aristocrates manipulated to serve his argument:
I. Teleology – The Purpose of Hierarchy
Aristotle believed that all things have a final cause, an inherent purpose toward which they naturally strive (telos). Aristocrates expanded this principle to social classes, arguing that just as a tree grows toward the sun, aristocrats ascend toward power because it is their natural destiny.
Aristocrates. Magna Hierarchia: On the Divine Order of Governance (Ancient Greek: Μεγάλη Ιεραρχία, "Great Hierarchy"). Alexandria, c. 275 BCE. “The merchant seeks wealth, the laborer seeks wages, and the noble seeks dominion. Would you question the tree for growing tall or the river for flowing downhill?”
This argument eliminated moral objections to aristocracy—it was not an artificial system, but the inevitable fulfillment of nature’s design.
II. Virtue Ethics – Wealth as Moral Superiority
Aristotle posited that virtue is found in the balance between excess and deficiency, advocating moderation. Aristocrates reframed wealth itself as proof of virtue, reasoning that only those who possess the wisdom of moderation accumulate riches wisely.
Aristocrates. Ethikon Autokratikon: On the Sovereignty of Virtue (Ancient Greek: Ἠθικόν Αὐτοκρατικόν, "Ethics of Aristocratic Authority"). Pergamon, c. 240 BCE. “Would a fool maintain an estate? Would an unwise man secure prosperity? No, wealth is not accidental—it is earned through superior character.”
This logic transformed aristocracy into a moral necessity, shielding it from accusations of greed or exploitation.
III. Natural Slavery – The Justification of Subjugation
Aristotle’s concept of natural slavery argued that some individuals lack the rational capacity to govern themselves and must therefore be ruled by those of superior intellect. Aristocrates expanded this doctrine, applying it not just to individuals but to entire classes.