Aristotle's theory of justice in exchange / John-Stewart Gordon

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Gordon, John-Stewart, 1976- author.

Series:

Cambridge elements. Elements in ancient philosophy

Cambridge elements. Elements in ancient philosophy, 2631-4118

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Aristotle.

Justice (Philosophy).

Physical Description:

1 online resource

Place of Publication:

Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2026

Summary:

"This Element provides a systematic analysis of Aristotle’s theory of justice in exchange as developed in Nicomachean Ethics Book V. It examines Aristotle’s distinction between voluntary exchanges (commutative justice) and involuntary transactions (corrective justice), explaining how proportional reciprocity in voluntary exchange secures an equitable balance between parties of different contributions, while corrective justice redresses unjust gains and losses in involuntary transgressions. Key concepts such as proportional reciprocity and the arithmetic mean are explored to show how Aristotle’s vision of fair exchange underpins civic stability. The analysis also highlights Aristotle’s notion of fairness (epieikeia) as a principled adjustment of rigid legal norms, illustrating how equitable judgement supplements strict justice to accommodate particular cases. Overall, the Element clarifies Aristotle’s distinctions and principles, linking the ethics of equality and reciprocity to their practical application in law and commerce"-- Provided by publisher

Contents:

Justice in exchange : corrective justice

Justice in exchange : commutative justice

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references

Online resource; title from PDF title page (Cambridge Core, viewed August 21, 2026)

Other Format:

Print version: Gordon, John-Stewart, 1976- Aristotle's theory of justice in exchange

ISBN:

9781009351744

1009351745

OCLC:

1599735287

Publisher Number:

CIPO000421206

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license