“Minds are of three kinds: one is capable of thinking for itself; another is able to understand the thinking of others; and a third can neither think for itself nor understand the thinking of others. The first is of the highest excellence, the second is excellent, and the third is worthless.” Machiavelli, -‘The Prince’
555 years ago on May 3, the Italian philosopher and writer Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli was born. Throughout his life, he remained a staunch patriot and advocate for a unified Italy. Machiavelli’s enduring legacy lies in his foundational contributions to modern political theory, earning him a place among its seminal figures. Machiavelli argues that force can be justified to eliminate political adversaries, quash resistance among the populace, and eradicate individuals possessing the strength and ambition to challenge the ruler’s authority. Consequently, Machiavelli’s counsel has garnered infamy, and his name has become synonymous with cunning and manipulation, ensuring his enduring place in history through the term “Machiavellian.”
By the time he was 29, the maverick POLITICO had already entered the political service of his native Florence. Rising to the position of Defence Secretary, he earned distinction through the implementation of policies that bolstered Florence’s political standing. Subsequently, he was tasked with diplomatic missions for his principality, affording him encounters with notable figures including Louis XII of France, Pope Julius II, and the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. However, perhaps most pivotal for Machiavelli was his interaction with Cesare Borgia a Prince of the Papal States.
Machiavelli, a Renaissance luminary, wore many hats: he was a Florentine diplomat, author, philosopher, and historian. His legacy hinges on his seminal work, “The Prince” (Il Principe), written around 1513 and published posthumously in 1532, five years after his death. Revered as the progenitor of modern political philosophy and political science, Machiavelli’s insights remain pivotal in discussions surrounding governance and power dynamics. Throughout his tenure, he occupied prominent roles within the Florentine Republic, exerting significant influence in diplomatic and military arenas.
Literary pursuits
Beyond his political duties, he engaged in diverse literary pursuits, crafting comedies, carnival songs, and poetry. Furthermore, his personal correspondence remains invaluable to historians and scholars, offering insights into Italian correspondence practices and cultural milieu of his time.
While Machiavelli’s name is synonymous with “The Prince,” scholars also recognise the significance of his other works of political philosophy. Among these, the “Discourses on Livy” (composed circa 1517) holds particular importance often credited with laying the groundwork for modern republicanism. Despite its lesser renown compared to “The Prince,” it has left an indelible mark on political thought.Machiavelli’s writings exerted a profound influence on Enlightenment thinkers who sought to revive interest in classical republicanism. Figures like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and James Harrington found inspiration in his works, drawing upon his insights to shape their own theories of governance.
Furthermore, Machiavelli’s enduring legacy extends to contemporary political discourse. His political realism continues to resonate with generations of academics and politicians alike. Intellectuals such as Hannah Arendt and statesmen like Otto von Bismarck have acknowledged his influence, illustrating the enduring relevance of Machiavelli’s ideas in understanding and navigating the complexities of power and governance.
Machiavelli’s birth occurred against the backdrop of a tumultuous era in Italian history. The Italian city-states, governed by various families and individuals, experienced rapid rises and falls in power. The relentless ambition of popes and the monarchs of France, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire fueled constant warfare for regional dominance. The political landscape was characterised by ever-shifting alliances, where condottieri, or mercenary leaders, opportunistically switched sides, adding layers of unpredictability to conflicts. Governments often proved to be ephemeral, with many short-lived administrations rising and falling in quick succession. This volatile environment shaped Machiavelli’s understanding of politics and warfare, influencing the pragmatic realism that permeates his works.
Machiavelli notably argued that a ruler, whether establishing a kingdom or a republic, should be pardoned for resorting to violence and other controversial deeds if they ultimately serve the greater good. However, his ideas sparked considerable controversy upon the publication of “The Prince.” Opinions on Machiavelli’s work diverge sharply. Some interpret “The Prince” dedicated to Lorenzo di Piero de’ Medici, offers a series of maxims on politics that depart from conventional wisdom. Rather than focusing solely on hereditary princes, the book delves into the challenges faced by a “New Prince” seeking to establish and maintain power. As a candid portrayal of political realities, while others perceive it as a manual that instructs aspiring tyrants on how to acquire and retain power through any means necessary. Even in contemporary times, debates persist among scholars. Figures like Leo Strauss have reaffirmed the traditional view of Machiavelli as a “teacher of evil,” emphasising the perceived amorality and Machiavellianism in his writings.
Ruler feared
Central to Machiavelli’s philosophy is the idea that a ruler must be willing to act ruthlessly when necessary. He argues that it is preferable for a ruler to be feared rather than loved, as fear ensures obedience through the anticipation of punishment. Machiavelli underscores the necessity for rulers to employ brute force or deception methodically, including extreme measures such as the elimination of rival noble families, to preempt any threats to their authority.
One of the most significant contributions of “The Prince” to the history of political thought is its establishment of a clear dichotomy between political realism and political idealism. By offering practical advice on acquiring and maintaining political power, Machiavelli diverged sharply from the idealized visions of governance presented by philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. Unlike Plato and Aristotle, who advocated for the pursuit of an ideal society as a guiding principle for rulers, Machiavelli emphasised the importance of understanding and navigating the harsh realities of political life. He rejected the notion that an imaginary utopia should serve as a model for governance, asserting instead that rulers must prioritise practical concerns and adapt their strategies to the exigencies of the political landscape.
In the 18th century, this perspective was taken further by figures like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who characterized “The Prince” as a satire. Rousseau suggested that Machiavelli’s work was not a straightforward manual for rulers but rather a critique of the morally bankrupt practices of contemporary political leaders.
Machiavellianism is a personality trait that’s part of a group called the dark triad, which also includes narcissism and psychopathy. People with high levels of Machiavellianism are emotionally detached, clever, and assertive. They often manipulate others without feeling guilty, using lies and unethical strategies to get what they want. They tend not to trust others, may seek revenge, and can come across as charming even though they lack true empathy. They’re good at understanding others’ thoughts and feelings, but they use that knowledge to their advantage. Machiavellianism isn’t a mental disorder, but it does affect how people behave and interact with others.
“You ought never to suffer your designs to be crossed in order to avoid war, since war is not so to be avoided, but is only deferred to your disadvantage.” -Machiavelli
