Consideration of external factors

Firstly, with regards to the territory upon which the city-state is located, it should be self-sufficient [1326b: 27]. The layout of the territory must be strategic so that it is not susceptible to the invasion of enemies yet easy for citizens to get out to [1326b: 42-43]. Hence, city-states must have access to sea for accessibility and defense on both sea and land [1327a: 19]. As a corollary, the city-state should also requisite naval forces [1327a: 40] and sailors [1327b: 12]. There should be fortification that is contingent on the type of constitutions [1330b: 18]. For instance, acropolis hill forts are suitable for an oligarchy or monarchy while one on ground level is more suited for democracy [1330b: 17-18]. City-states should also have fortified walls to resist enemy invasion [1331a: 39].

Aristotle also considers the distribution of territorial land. Hence, territory must be divided into two parts, one communal the other individual [1330a: 9-10]. Each of these must be divided into two. Communal land is to be used support public services to the gods, the other to the messes [1330a: 12-13]. One part of the private land located at the frontiers, the other near the city-state [1330a: 13-14]. This is all so that all citizens will have two allotments that seems to be most fitting for the best political constitution based on equality and justice [1330a: 16]. Moreover, earlier on, Aristotle says also proposed that for to live in and to aim at the best possible life, they would require their own property [1328a: 34-35].

The territorial site should also have a slope towards the east that is toward the winds that blow from the rising sun [1130a: 40]. This will ensure good air that contributes to the best health [1330b: 14]. Also, the territory should possess a plentiful water supply especially springs [1330b: 5] otherwise there should be construction of large reservoirs for rainwater [1330b: 6].

The city-state should also have access to sea for safety and defense purposes [1327b: 19 & 22] and to ensure a ready supply of necessities [1327b: 20] and food supply [1328b: 5]. This is so that city-states can import unavailable commodities and export excess [1327b: 26-27]. Being well situated in relation to the sea and surrounding territory [1327a: 4] will make transportation for crops, timber and materials easily transportable [1327a: 9].