Most notable among the Greek philosophers who inspired Machiavelli was Plato. In particular, Machiavelli took interest in Plato's concept of just rulers who ruled by moral virtue. Machiavelli argued against this Platonic philosophy. ... This is in stark contrast to the Platonic philosophy when man existed to serve the state, the basic idea being that ethics and politics are intertwined, its essential features overlapping. ... On the other hand, Plato argues a ruler can never be unjust. ...

• Word Count: 4508
• Approx Pages: 18
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

The writings of Descartes had awakened in him the interest in philosophy. ... His first book (Essay Concerning Human Understanding) concerned arguing with Plato, Descartes and other scholars citing that there are no original ideas or principles. ... Locke's philosophy on human nature was greatly influenced by the hard times in which he lived and was involved in. ... He might seem to be straightforward but he adds to his philosophy a theory of morals which could be really confusing. ...

• Word Count: 7056
• Approx Pages: 28
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School