When one first reads Machiavelli'ssmall volume? (Dedicatory Letter 3) entitled The Prince, a typical reaction is one of disgust for what some describe as brutal, deceitful, and immoral political methods and principles. Some take offense to his disregard for Judeo-Christian ethics and for his lack of reference to God and divine law. Machiavelli clearly does not deal with the ideal case, but is fascinated rather with how people realistically act, be it in times of depravity or times of peace and opulence, his major concern is that of true human nature. However, in thoroughly reading and re-reading one finds principles which are paradoxical to his central concern with power politics, and in assessing to what degree his writing is trulyMachiavellian? lies the key to understanding The Prince.
In Chapter Three we see the onset of Machiavelli's brutal reasoning. He says in regard to recently capturing a principality,To hold [the inhabitants] securely, it is enough to wipe out the family of the ruler who held sway over [the inhabitants]?? (Machiavelli 8). This exemplifiesMachiavellian? reasoning by showing his disregard for ethics when it conflicts with the end result. In other words, Machiavelli is more concerned with the end result and not the means by which the result is obtained. He also warns about allowing other people to gain too much power,anyone who enables another to become more powerful, brings about his own ruin.? (Machiavelli 14). This maxim falls along parallel lines as the reasoning behind the destruction of a powerful ruling family.
Within this chapter, as well as throughout the text, we also see a notion that cannot be considered brutal or immoral. In the beginning of the chapter Machiavelli stresses the importance of having friends and winning the affection of the people.For even if one possesses very strong armies, the goodwill of the inhabitants is always necessary?? (Machiavelli 7).
