Niccolo Machiavelli

Real World Example

Niccolo Machiavelli was an influential Italian diplomat and philosopher during the Renaissance, best known for his political treatise, "Il Principe" (The Prince). In this book, he discussed political power and how rulers could maintain control, emphasizing realistic and sometimes ruthless strategies. His ideas were important at the time because they challenged traditional views on morality and governance, influencing many leaders during the Reformation. Today, Machiavelli's concepts still impact political thinking, especially the idea of "Machiavellian" tactics, where people prioritize results over morals. For example, in business, leaders might use strategic planning and competitive tactics inspired by Machiavelli to achieve success, highlighting the importance of adaptability and pragmatism.