Since ancient times, numerous philosophers have dedicated their efforts to finding the right ways to become a perfect ruler. The Greek tradition, which formed bases for the political thoughts for centuries, viewed citizens’ happiness and prosperity as the highest virtues. Such ideas were later replaced with Christian morality statements, which were the governing ones in the medieval age. However, the thoughts expressed by Machiavelli provided a completely different set of guidelines, which made him famous and largely criticized all around the civilized world. His dedication to the significance of politics and its consideration as a predominant force over other circumstances turned The Prince into one of the most famous books on this topic. The recommendations provided by Machiavelli indicated a new direction of governing, in which the virtues of power stood above any moral limitations.
The first significant aspect of Machiavelli’s views of the ruling is related to its origins and support means. Reviewing principalities, he mentions that they can be hereditary or acquired. Although the first case usually provides for a smooth transition of power, Machiavelli disapproves of it, noting that it eliminates the “causes of innovations” (Machiavelli 7). Therefore, rising from an unprivileged status is a better option as it removes any dependence and ensures the willingness to change. Moreover, conquering a city, a prince does not need to respect its traditions and should replace them with his norms. The implementation of this leads to the issue of building foundations for further governing. Machiavelli considers it preferable to enter into alliances with people rather than aristocracy, but the bases for such cooperation are different from the traditional ones (26). Citing the example of Cesare Borgia, he indicates that killing members of the previous governing class is an optimum strategy for a ruler. Finally, he mentions committing crimes as an acceptable way to gain power. Combined, this creates a picture of a person acquiring and maintaining his ruling status by all available means.
Another aspect which actually constitutes the essence of Machiavelli’s principles is denying any moral standards. He states the necessity for a prince “to learn to be able not to be good” and use this skill when the circumstances dictate (Machiavelli 61). Posing a ruler above the ordinary citizens and their desires, the author approves of any actions required to gain control over people. He mentions that it is acceptable to be sometimes cruel, fierce, or dishonest, depending on the goals to be achieved. Liberal views should not be among the governing principles since “a prince cannot, without damage to himself, use the virtue of liberality so that it is recognized” (Machiavelli 63). Moreover, even the merit of faith is depicted as a debatable one. Although it is a laudable and, sometimes, beneficial quality, “the princes who have done great things are those who have taken little account of faith” (Machiavelli 69). Betrayal and deceit constitute acceptable ways for obtaining the advantages of alliances with friends and overcoming the opponents. Therefore, Machiavelli views moral norms as a limitation, which should be avoided.
The last virtue which completes an image of a ruler depicted in The Prince is being powerful. It is necessary to have well-trained forces and not rely on some mercenary or auxiliary troops as their members can quickly betray and escape from a battle. Machiavelli mentions that “there cannot be good laws where there are not good arms,” indicating the prevalence of force over any legal constructs (48). He even suggests that the art of war should be the only one deserving the attention of a prince, and it should always be mastered. Discussing how to keep the citizens loyal, Machiavelli states the preference of fear over love since the threat of punishment is more potent than friendship (67). Thus, the recommendations for creating the foundations for long and successful governing are focused on using the force and oppressing the ones not willing to obey. Finally, he mentions the ability “to carry on great enterprises” as an obvious way to be held in esteem, citing the examples of famous conquerors (Machiavelli 87). All this indicates a high appreciation of power as a driving force for respect and prosperity.
The combination of characteristics mentioned above paints a grim picture of a ruler abusing citizens and pursuing only his own goals. The domination of power without any moral limitations provides a perfect foundation for widespread terror and cruelty. However, this image should not be interpreted outside the context of Machiavelli’s work. It was the time of “Italy’s dividedness, extreme poverty due to wars between republics and princes, the Pope’s intervention, and application to foreign kingdoms” (Hacifevzioğlu 849). Addressed to Lorenzo de’ Medici, The Prince contained guidelines intended to be used in a critical political and social situation. This brings an entirely different attitude towards Machiavelli’s recommendations since the use of power was essential to unite the country and save it. It can be viewed as a reflection of reality and a transitional step for further government enhancements. Such an external framework and the author’s willingness to step away from the traditional values allow The Prince to occupy a unique place among all political books.
Works Cited
Hacifevzioğlu, Ahmet Umut. “The Power of a Statesman: The Ideal Leader According to Machiavelli.” Turkish Studies, vol. 13, no. 10, 2018, pp. 845–855.
Machiavelli, Niccolò. The Prince. Translated by Harvey C. Mansfield, 2nd ed., The University of Chicago Press, 1998.