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. ... On the other hand, Plato argues a ruler can never be unjust. ... Simply put, if the principle of legal justice be disregarded, the inevitable conclusion is the end of civil life. In consonance with the strict observance of the rule of law, Machiavelli stresses that the administration of justice and punishment must be inflicted by the state's legitimate authorities. ...

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