Even though for the most part I didn’t agree with what Machiavelli had to say in “The Prince”, I definitely agree with this statement and think that it is good advice. This statement holds true in all of life not just political life. It is always best to take the initiative in everything in life.
Machiavelli is a pretty bold guy he tells anyone reading the book that when you are taking over a country that is ruled by a family that you should kill them, this seems a bit like taking advantage of the situation but if you are seeking fortune then this is the path to take. It’s what leaders like Hitler did. Germany was going through political struggle with the fall of the Weimer Republic, and when the going was good he had plenty of fortune.
This seems to go along with his previous advice because he seems to give “bold” advice like when you take over another state to kill its ruling family if it has one and to disarm its citizens. This is a pretty “bold” move. Also he is advising leaders how to stay in power and if they want to stay in power during “political strife and struggle” then they have to be bold especially because the strife and struggle is happening on their watch.
Your reference to Hitler as a follower of Machiavelli's advice made me think. When reading your blog, I was reminded of perhaps a fairer or less extreme historical example of this Machiavellian advice for rulers: King Louis XIV or the "Sun King" of France. King Louis is often pointed to as the epitome of an effective absolutist ruler. He took the political initiative always by making all domestic and foreign decisions himself. He even constructed Versailles to keep an eye on his nobles and restrain their power to assemble. He serves as a good example of an effective ruler that was both respected and feared because of his adherence to these Machiavellian characteristics.
ReplyDeleteI never thought of him, he is a great example. France saw some great years under him.
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