Niccolò Machiavelli (1469–1527) was an Italian diplomat and philosopher born in Florence, whose experiences with Power struggles and political intrigue during the tumultuous Renaissance era profoundly shaped his thinking. Living amidst the fall of the Medici and the rise of republican ideals, Niccolò Machiavelli wrote "The Prince" in 1513, though it wasn't published until 1532, five years after his Death. The manual offered unapologetically pragmatic advice for rulers, sparking controversy for its perceived cynicism and break from moralistic Tradition. Initially criticized as diabolical, "The Prince" eventually became a cornerstone of Political Theory, influencing Enlightenment thinkers and modern political Science. Its reach extends surprisingly into Literature, Ethics, and even Military Strategy, reflecting a broad, lasting influence across cultures and disciplines.
Guiding Question
Is it better to be feared or loved when power is at stake?