The Prince

Wow… it’s time for a political treatise!  You have to love the NYU RAs as the diversity and types of favorite books really go from autobiographies to sci-fi to children’s books, to love stories.  This one is a classic presumably written by the Italian diplomat and political theorist Niccolò Machiavelli with the book called The Prince.  It is considered one of the first “philosophical treatises.”  Machiavelli begins with a description of the political power base, the state, or how one rules.  After he provides a short overview of the types of ruling models and how it is done, he then reviews how princes who rise to power in newly organized states.  He notes that with new states, it is usually based on the strength of the prince himself, giving much credit to an individual, rather than a collective group from the new community. The prince’s new state could be created by receiving (or taking) a fortune or criminal action, and notes how princes move into their positions (supported by the people or appointed by a great leader).  He later discusses the relationship with the church (Catholic in this case) and how to sustain a military presence.  He spends a good amount of time on what qualities are needed for a successful Prince.  Should they be generous? Be kind and merciful or cruel?  He then gives guidance for keeping their word and avoiding hatred.  And finally some advice on the importance of prudence, to include: how to gain honors, dealing with nobles and the staff, avoiding flatterers, and how to avoid losing your state.  The treatise is a great overview of the thinking of the time and helps give great context for those who are history buffs.  Obviously the translation makes this book readable!  I’m not the biggest history guy, so for me, it was ok.  Give me a good novel sometime soon RAs!