Where is the Common Good in Machiavellis Prince Essay Example

republic that included checks and balances, inspired by the "tribunes of the plebs" in Rome who supervised the actions of the upper classes. As an advocate of realism, Machiavelli recognized the importance of practicality over idealism in governance.

In his writing, Machiavelli aimed to create something beneficial for all who comprehend it. He recognized a significant gap between how people live and how they should live, leading him to believe that those who disregard what is done in favor of what ought to be done will experience downfall rather than preservation. Machiavelli suggests that, in a society where many individuals are not good, those who strive for constant virtue will suffer. He believes that it is essential for a prince to learn how not to be good and to use this knowledge to maintain their position as necessary. However, this notion of power through cunning and ruthlessness seems at odds with promoting the common good. Crick and Walker define the common good as the aggregate good of the population and argue that Machiavelli does not offer a philosophical discussion on exactly what the common good entails. Fontana believes that Machiavelli aims to reconstruct politics in a way that directs it toward...

In terms of politics, Machiavelli believed that it is solely concerned with upholding justice and promoting the common good within a community of people. This concept, which Rousseau later referred to as the 'general will', suggests that allowing one Sovereign, whether an individual or a group, to hold authority maintains order and prevents anarchy.

Hobbes referred to the concept of 'the State of Nature' in his work Leviathan. He argued that obedience to the Sovereign

should be man's highest moral purpose, as life in the mythical State of Nature would be 'solitary, poore, nasty, brutish and short'. Hobbes' State of Nature was similar to the Civil War that characterized the Italian Renaissance and during which Machiavelli lived. According to Machiavelli, disorder should never be allowed to develop in an attempt to avoid war. Russell summarizes Machiavelli's political ideals as prioritizing national independence, security, and a well-ordered constitution.

According to Machiavelli, the ideal constitution distributes legal rights based on the real power of the prince, nobles, and people. This leads to stability and makes successful revolutions less likely. However, for the sake of stability, it may be wise to give more power to the people. The Prince emphasizes the importance of maintaining a cohesive society in both hereditary states and mixed principalities. Machiavelli argues that if the leader is not hated because of unusual vices, they will be loved by their people. In mixed principalities, as long as the people's customs and language are similar and their lives are not greatly disrupted upon conquest, they will live peacefully. A leader who is loved by the populace is less likely to face dissent and can ensure happier and more peaceful lives for their people. Machiavelli also advises that once power is seized, the statesman should reside in their principality to prevent corruption and anticipate problems before they become too severe for remedies.

The Prince contains several instances of utilitarian theory, one of which is demonstrated in the leader's concern for maintaining order among both the nobility and general public. This can be likened to Bentham's panoptical concept of surveillance, where the mere presence

of the prince and his entourage in the area can encourage subjects to behave properly.

In his work, Machiavelli cites historical examples to reinforce his arguments. One such example is Cesare Borgia's conquest of Romagna. The previous rulers neglected the well-being of the populace and focused solely on their own interests, leading to discontent and ill will toward the ruling classes. In order to bring stability, Borgia appointed a strong leader named Ramiro de Lorqua who used any means necessary to restore order. However, de Lorqua's violent methods made him unpopular among the people which caused Borgia to have him put on trial and publicly executed as a warning against rebellion. The display of brutality both shocked and placated the public.

'23 In Chapter 17, Machiavelli discusses how a prince should not be afraid of being criticized for being cruel if it is necessary for keeping his subjects united and loyal. By executing a few individuals, the prince can prevent disorder and violence from spreading and harming the community. Fontana notes that using rhetoric and deception to persuade and organize the masses can increase their intensity and violence. Machiavelli also recognizes the importance of keeping a check on the powerful, as demonstrated by France's parlement. It is essential for a prince to be loved by his subjects in order to maintain stability.'

Machiavelli emphasizes the detrimental nature of practicing greed and taking the possessions and women of one's subjects, which will ultimately lead to being disliked. He stresses the significance of having knowledge in warfare, as a prince lacking in this skill will not gain the trust or respect of their soldiers.

'27 Having a strong army has many

benefits, including promoting peace within the populace and deterring potential aggressors from outside the principality. This leads to a more peaceful society with less violence. Machiavelli highlights an example from history, Prince Philopoemen of Achaeans, who remained prepared for war even during times of peace in order to effectively protect his people. 28 In addition, wise allocation of state funds is emphasized by Machiavelli in his chapter "Of Generosity and Parsimony." He emphasizes that it is better to be considered frugal than to impose excessive taxes for the sake of generosity towards a few individuals. Ultimately, governing well and being able to defend against possible invaders are more important.

In summary, Machiavelli's politics aimed to establish a peaceful and stable society, despite appearing deceitful and immoral. His ideas may even be considered utopian, advocating for a strong military to prevent war and disorder and frugality with state funds to ensure efficient spending. Through public punishment of select individuals, chaos and murder could be prevented for the majority of citizens. Additionally, Machiavelli viewed the Church as just another political player fighting for power.

According to the text, the clerical body relied solely on persuasion and setting a good example. Machiavelli's notion of the common good in The Prince was based on his realism and recognition of human nature rather than a theological ideal.