Machiavelli’s immoral ideas live on

Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli (1469-1527) was a Florentine diplomat, author, philosopher, and historian who lived during the Italian Renaissance. Some scholars say he was the first philosopher to divorce politics from ethics.

He believed that violence and deceit were sometimes necessary to maintain power, introduce new essential institutions, and purge the community of men who could potentially replace the ruler.

He wrote two political masterpieces, The Prince and The Art of War.

The Prince was written around 1513 but published only after Machiavelli’s death in 1532. It is generally recognized as contrary to fundamental moral principles.

Yet, many politicians follow Machiavelli’s advice today. In an interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Senator Bernie Sanders said Vice President Kamala Harris did not change her views. The apparent changes are part of “doing what she thinks is right to win the election.”

The Prince

Machiavelli dedicated The Prince to the Florentine ruler of his time, a Medici. He instructed rulers that they need not be concerned about ethics. He argued that rulers should strive to maintain or expand their position, even if immoral acts are necessary to accomplish that goal. He stressed that their reign would fail if rulers ignored reality and attempted to live an ideal life. He taught that the ends justify the means.

The ruler must protect his country using all available means, no matter the cost.

Machiavelli suggested three ways to control countries accustomed to freedom: destruction, occupation, or establishing an oligarchy. Although destruction or occupation are destructive and involve brute force, deceit, and the extermination of families, including opponents, they are the best options.

He wrote, “It is better to be feared than loved if one cannot be both.” He argued that fear is a better motivator for obtaining one’s desires than love, which is why it is a more effective tool for leaders.

He advised rulers not to fear the public. They should strive to appear virtuous. He wrote that the general public sees only what you seem to be. Few people realize what you really are. Appearances always take in the general population, and the few who know the truth do not control them.

He also counseled rulers that they would be despised if they were seen by the public as changeable, foolish, weak, and mean. A ruler must show greatness, courage, seriousness, and strength.

It should surprise no one that many politicians today adopt the lessons that Machiavelli teaches.

The Art of War

He wrote his second masterpiece, The Art of War, between 1519 and 1520 and published in 1521.

His 1521 treatise, like Sun Tzu’s book with the identical name, is a classic of military and political theory with thoughtful philosophical ideas applicable to daily life. However, while Sun Tzu’s work is moral and rational, Machiavelli’s is immoral, irrational, and dangerous.

Both books are easy to read and very informative. Machiavelli’s second volume is just over three hundred pages with seven chapters written in a fascinating Socratic format similar to the writings by the famed Greek philosopher Plato but not as intriguing or insightful as Plato’s splendid writings. Yet, Machiavelli’s work influenced Fredrick the Great, Napoleon, and other leaders.

Machiavelli’s treatise offers practical advice on how a ruler can effectively govern his nation, motivate armed forces, develop strategies and tactics, demoralize enemies, and avoid ambushes and defeats. Interestingly, many of these ideas can be applied by non-rulers in their daily lives, underscoring the relevance and influence of Machiavelli’s work beyond the realm of politics.

Machiavelli’s advice

Machiavelli wrote that war is an extension of political values and goals. It assures the stability and longevity of a nation. He advised rulers that victory is so essential that they should avoid moral behaviors when necessary and even be cruel, use brute force, and exterminate noble families to prevent challenges to their authority and defend their country and their power over it.

He said leaders should be cunning, manipulative, deceitful, self-serving, permanently hide their intentions, avoid inconsistency, and not hesitate to act without mercy and empathy, against faith, humanity, and religion to preserve power and nation. Victory must be achieved at any cost.

Machiavellianism

When Machiavelli’s teachings for rulers are applied to individuals in society, it gives rise to a concept known as Machiavellianism. Psychologists often associate this trait with psychological disturbances such as narcissism. It is observed in individuals who exhibit excessive ambition, self-centeredness, immorality, cynicism, and a willingness to manipulate others to achieve their goals. These individuals may take credit for others’ work, spread rumors or lies to gain an advantage, sabotage colleagues’ efforts, or manipulate others to serve their interests.

In short

The primary lesson for rulers is to realize that it is necessary for a leader who wants to hold power to know how to do wrong.

Whether applied to rulers or individuals, Machiavellianism is a non-rational idea. Unfortunately, most politicians have accepted the immoral teachings, sometimes without realizing what they are doing.

A culture that values and encourages open communication is critical to combating manipulative behaviors. Whether between rulers and their nations or among individuals, fostering an environment where honesty and integrity are prized can empower us to challenge and resist such behaviors, instilling a sense of hope for a better future.