Although it seems odd, Machiavelli actually agrees with Aristotle on this point. ... Machiavelli advises princes to adopt characteristics that serve their state. ... Human beings do not naturally come together in peace and agreement according to Machiavelli. ... If the people think their leader lacks morals, then the people may revolt, yet it is not any particular belief specifically that endangers the rule of government. ... One may expect that Machiavelli would support Christian teachings that attempt to foster moral behavior, but Machiavelli insists that God's promise of eternal salvat...

• Word Count: 1841
• Approx Pages: 7
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Machiavelli identified his problems with current authority and clearly articulated the changes needed. ... Machiavelli also commented on the role of religion in a well-run political society. Machiavelli viewed religion as a useful instrument for princes to rule a civilized state. ... Machiavelli sees history as a way to learn from the figures that came before him. ... He mentions these figures not because they are closer to any sort of divine revelation, but to articulate that actions of past leaders need to be understood to advance society forward most effectively. ...

• Word Count: 1464
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

And how internal vetting of politicians goes on, "selecting leaders and eliminating mere demagogues-. ... Asking what is generalizable and what is contextual about the work of earlier political scientists such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, or Montesquieu leads to asking the same questions about contemporary and personal work. ...

• Word Count: 893
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate