Machiavellis Views of Human Nature and Their Relevance to Todays World
Born in Florence, Italy in 1469, Niccolò Machiavelli was the first great political philosopher of the Renaissance. Once a bureaucrat and diplomat for the state of Florence, he was removed from office when the Medici family was restored to power in 1512. He retired to his country home where he, among other works, penned The Prince, a work which has become a political handbook for modern day politicians as well as for those who desire power--whether it be on Wall Street, through corporate conglomerates, or in their personal relationships.The Prince is a philosophical political view on how one might gain, maintain, and expand the power over the state or states in which a ruler has authority. While Machiavelli's views are based on maintaining a monarchy, they can be equated to the corporate world of modern times. In this essay, I will discuss how Machiavelli's views of human nature are relevant in the world today, particularly in capitalist economies that produce massive conglomerates. First let's review some of Machiavelli's viewpoints. Machiavelli suggests that after overthrowing the current monarchy the new ruling Prince should be the sole authority, making all decisions in his own best interests.1 Any members of the o
10 Today in this world of downsizing and corporate mergers, a large corporation would have no trouble applying the principals of Machiavelism. In reality, they really are in no better position than previously. Corporate giants acquire smaller, competitive, and/or mismanaged companies in hostile fashion every day. If you allow them to believe you are interested in their advice, providing you ask them for their opinions on matters that concern you, they'll feel flattered and inclined to please. Machiavelli's The Prince's techniques of political dominance are demonstrative in today's world of corporate super power. Some of the upper management may be retained so that the old policies of the company can continue as they were, providing this serves the main interests of the corporation. 8 Appearing to be stingy would be more advantageous than being generous, less he be taken advantage of. 3 He should, however, not mistreat them, for even though men are generally ungrateful, liars, and deceivers, they will remain loyal if treated well. 4 Machiavelli believed in a separation from the church. They become insecure and unsettled about their future and try to perform more effectively at their jobs. Once they are taken over, the old Board of Directors and the CEO is dismissed, factories and warehouses are closed, plants are consolidated, and hundreds of employees are fired. 9 He should be deceitful to his subjects in his own best interests although this should not be evident. Some employees may be rewarded for their hard work with insignificant title upgrades and modest increases in wages, thereby keeping them loyal to the company. Bibliography "The Prince," by Niccolo Machiavelli.
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