Machiavelli
Posted by michaelchopp on March 17, 2008
Michael Chopp
Ariana Paliobagis
ENG121
3/17/08
Machiavelli Questions & Free Write
1. Machiavelli talks about feared leaders and loyal leaders… Which can be said to be more beneficial to the country?
2. Do you think a ruler can put aside personal beliefs for the better of the people, even if the ruler doesn’t agree?
For question #1, i believe it can be said that both can be true for different reasons. For a feared ruler, it is thought that the people would obey the orders and laws created by the ruler. Also, the tough, hard-nosed behavior of the ruler would lead to respect from the people, proving they believe in his ways. On the negative side, if the ruler is feared but isn’t taking care of the country, people will eventually revolt no matter the power of the ruler. Back in history, rulers were killed all he time to get them off the throne. This could happen, not in our lifetime, but impeachment could occurr. As for loyal leaders, yes they obey the wishes of the people and look for their bets interests. However, there is no power or discipline in this type of ruling. It would allow the people to control the ruler and “walk all over him/her”. I believe chaos would eventually break out from the many opinions of the people and the ruler not being able to fulfill each one of their needs. Displine and toughness needs to be shown to the people to gain tolerance, with loyalty following after.
