Aristotle put forward the idea of harmonious education based on his soul theory. Aristotle believes that the education corresponding to the three components of the soul is physical education, moral education, intellectual education and aesthetic education. Only through this multi-faceted education can children's body and mind develop harmoniously.

Aristotle believes that the basic characteristic of human beings is rationality. Only by making full use of and developing rationality can people truly realize themselves. The fundamental purpose of human education should be to fully develop human rationality, which is the education that free people (city-state citizens) should receive, that is, free education. Its fundamental purpose is not to prepare for a career, but to promote the development of people's advanced ability and rationality.

The implementation of free education requires two basic conditions: one is leisure. Only when a free man doesn't have to work hard for his livelihood and has enough leisure time can he concentrate on meditation and use reason for the development of his mind; Second, free subjects, only free subjects without any utilitarian purpose are the knowledge that free people should learn, including reading, writing, arithmetic, gymnastics and philosophy.

Aristotle believes that human soul has three components, namely plant soul, animal soul and rational soul. Plant soul is the lowest part of the soul, which is mainly manifested in physiological aspects such as nutrition and reproduction; The soul of animals is higher than that of plants, which is mainly manifested in instinct, emotion and desire. Rational soul is the highest part of the soul, which is mainly manifested in cognition and thinking.