Comparison Between Plato and Machiavelli
Autor: Sharon • November 8, 2018 • 1,050 Words (5 Pages) • 785 Views
...
will and how those successes and failures are determined by geographic location (Machiavelli 671). Machiavelli mentions the concept of reality and his concern over how it affects the situation. For examlple, rulers need to experience failure in order to become an even stronger leader.
In “The Prince,” Machiavelli mentions that the prince must look for a solution to escape his bad reputation in order to restore a good name with the State and with his people. Though the Prince wants to remain in good terms with his people, Machiavelli stated that power moves around the individual and is an uncontrollable force. Machiavelli states that appearance is a huge factor that attracts people to a good ruler. However, there is the question of whther or not it is better to be feared or to be loved. To be loved, the people would become comfortable to their ruler and society would be lenient. However to be feared, a ruler is able to build up their power and reputation. Fear can instill order and balance within a society.
Socrates, in “The Republic,” believed in the concept of justice for oneself and unto others. Socrates, an Athenian, mentioned that individuals would eventually leave the natural world one day from either natural causes or some sort of intoxicants. It is entirely upon that individual on how they decide to leave this world. Socrates comes to the conclusion that our actions are entirely dependent on what we believe is good and our knowledge. Plato believed that each and every single individual has the right to make their own choices but must bear in mind that every decision has its own consequence.
Plato’s “The Republic” and Machiavelli’s “The Prince” are definitely two of the most exquisite pieces of work to have been created. Though opposed in their philosophies, there have been many similarities between the two as well. Machiavelli’s and Plato’s philosophies reside in our everyday lives even to this day. From their time period to this day and age, we have adapted to their points of view. For some of our society is structured with their guidance as our foundation.
Works Cited
Barnet, Sylvan and Hugo Bedau, Eds. Current issues and Enduring Questions. Boston: Bedford Book, 1993. Print.
Fader, Daniel. Machiavelli the Prince. The Renaissance Man. New York. Print.
`
...