Quotation
Last reviewed:
The virtuous city is the one whose people cooperate to reach true happiness; cities that aim at wealth, honour or pleasure mistake their goal.
al-Fārābī · Islamic Neoplatonism / Aristotelianism (falsafa) · Medieval · c. 942–950
What does it mean?
A society is judged by what it is for, not only how rich it is.
Did al-Fārābī really say this?
The library’s label is Summary. Restates his contrast of the virtuous and ignorant cities. Not a direct quotation.
Where it comes from
The Virtuous City, ch. 15, summary
Approximate date: c. 942–950.
How to use it
Ask whether your town, club or workplace is organised to help people flourish or only to make money.
A mindset reading
A good aim matters before good methods.
Understand the philosophy
He follows Plato's ladder of failed constitutions in the Republic.
- society
- happiness
- justice
FAQ
What does it mean?
A society is judged by what it is for, not only how rich it is.
Did al-Fārābī really say this?
Summary. Restates his contrast of the virtuous and ignorant cities. Not a direct quotation.
Which work is it in?
The Virtuous City, ch. 15, summary Approximate date: c. 942–950.