Machiavelli

=====================================================

MACHIAVELLIS VIEW OF HUMAN NATURE

In The Prince Niccolo Machiavelli presents a view of governing a state that is

drastically different from that of pityingists of his time. Machiavelli believes the

ruling Prince should be the sole authority ascertain every aspect of the state and

put in effect a policy which would serve his best interests. These interests were

gaining, maintaining, and expanding his political power.1 His understanding of human

nature was a complete contradiction of what humanists believed and taught. Machiavelli

strongly promoted a secular society and matte morality was not necessary but in fact

stood in the way of an effectively governed principality.2 Though in come cases

Machiavellis suggestions reckon harsh and immoral one must remember that these views

were derived come forward of concern Italys unstable political condition.3

Though humanists of Machiavellis time believed that an individual had more than to offer to

the well being of the state, Machiavelli was quick to mock human nature. Humanists

believed that An individual only grows to maturity- both intellectually and morally-

through participation in the feeling of the state.4 Machiavelli generally distrusted

citizens, stating that ...in time of adversity, when the state is in compulsion of its

citizens in that location are few to be found.



5 Machiavelli further goes on to query the

loyalty of the citizens and advises the Prince that ...because men a wretched

creatures who would not keep their word to you, you need keep your word to them.6

However, Machiavelli did not feel that a Prince should maltreat the citizens. This

suggestion once again to serve the Princes best interests.

If a prince send packing not be both feared and loved, Machiavelli suggests, it would be better

for him to be feared bey the citizens in spite of appearance his own principality. He makes the

generalization that men are, ...ungrateful, fickle, liars,

If you want to get a full essay, order it on our website: Ordercustompaper.com



If you want to get a full essay, wisit our page: write my paper