Abstract

This article argues that the term isonomia is best understood as a specific type of balance of forces closely connected with the classical concept of demokratia. The article proceeds by placing isonomia within the context of fifth/fourth century Athenian political discourse, and by explicating the relationship between isonomia and eunomia through attention to the usages of these terms in Greek philosophy, poetry, oratory, history and medicine. This analysis demonstrates how the concept of isonomia, understood as a balance of forces created specifically through the establishment of political equality, could be used to respond to criticisms of demokratia as exemplifying bad order/disorder. The conclusion suggests avenues for further research and some potential connections with contemporary democratic theorizing