Modern Political Theory Modern Political Theory P ray for the welfare of the government, since but for fear thereof, men would swallow one another alive.
Political theory focuses on the nature and purpose of human association.
Human beings are, as Aristotle says, political animals. Not only must we cooperate in order to survive, but our moral and intellectual faculties can develop only in association with other people. Problems of communal life have been apparent since society first arose. But more fundamental questions must also be addressed, including the overall goals communities should pursue. As citizens, we are constantly presented with particular questions bearing on our relationship to government.