Book 10 / Chapter 9
Paragraph 6 - The Importance of Nurture and Legislation in Society
Explanation - Part By Part
"In the Spartan state alone, or almost alone, the legislator seems to have paid attention to questions of nurture and occupations;"
Aristotle is pointing out that, among all the political systems of his time, Sparta stands out (or nearly stands alone) as a society where lawmakers actively considered and addressed how people are raised (their "nurture") and the types of work or roles ("occupations") they would engage in. In essence, Sparta didn’t leave these crucial aspects of life—the cultivation of character and the structuring of meaningful activities—up to chance or personal choice but viewed them as key elements to be shaped by the state. This sets Sparta apart, as most other societies ignored these things.
"in most states such matters have been neglected, and each man lives as he pleases, Cyclops-fashion, 'to his own wife and children dealing law'."
Aristotle is pointing out that in most societies, unlike in Sparta, people often live without a well-organized system of moral or social guidance. He uses the phrase "Cyclops-fashion" to describe this—this is a reference to the Cyclopes from Greek mythology, who lived solitary lives, each man independently caring only for his own family and following his own rules, without a larger framework of community or law. Essentially, Aristotle is criticizing societies where individuals act solely according to their personal desires or convenience, ignoring the need for shared principles or collective responsibility in nurturing virtue and order.
"Now it is best that there should be a public and proper care for such matters; but if they are neglected by the community it would seem right for each man to help his children and friends towards virtue, and that they should have the power, or at least the will, to do this."
Aristotle is emphasizing the importance of guiding people toward virtue and good character. He suggests that the ideal scenario is for the community or society—through laws and public systems—to take proper responsibility for shaping its citizens by providing education and fostering good habits. However, if society fails to do this (as it often does), then it becomes the personal duty of individuals, especially parents and close friends, to take on this role. They should encourage and help those close to them—like their children or companions—to develop virtue, either by having the ability to do so or at least the desire to do so.
In other words, if the broader system isn't nurturing good character, it falls on individuals to step up and ensure their loved ones are guided toward living a virtuous and meaningful life. Aristotle sees this as critical to creating a better society overall.