In The Prince Niccolo Machiavelli presents a view of governing a
state that is drastically different from that of humanists of his time.
Machiavelli believes the ruling Prince should be the sole authority
determining 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 felt
morality was not necessary but in fact stood in the way of an
effectively governed principality.2 Though in come cases Machiavelli's
suggestions seem harsh and immoral one must remember that these views
were derived out of concern Italy's unstable political condition.3
Though humanists of Machiavelli's time believed that an individual
had much 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 life of the state."4 Machiavelli generally
distrusted citizens, stating that "...in time of adversity, when the
state is in need of it's citizens there are few to be found."5
Machiavelli further goes on to question 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 mistreat the citizens.
This suggestion once again to serve the Prince's best interests.
If a prince can not be both feared and loved, Machiavelli suggests,
it would be better fo ...