Philosophy. Study the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality and existence.

Machiavelli’s influence on modern political theory cannot be overstated. The Prince, his most famous work, provides an interesting lens for examining modern politics and is perhaps more relevant than ever. The term ‘Machiavellian intelligence’ refers to the principles of his political philosophy and the idea that success in politics can be secured by manging behaviours and manipulating social groups.

In this course, we will study Machiavelli’s philosophy of human nature; his ‘real politic’ of the state; his alarming ethics; and his thoughts on war, religion, and literature. We will also consider his ideas on love and sex, particularly in his plays, poems and letters. Machiavellian politics is very much part of contemporary debate and we will see how his theory is being used now.

Aims

This course aims to:

• provide you with an understanding of the issues involved in of the philosophy of Machiavelli
• provide you with an understanding of the history of Machiavelli’s life, and how it has influenced contemporary politics
• facilitate discussion on the ideas of political reality; the psychology of human nature; free will; power; the ethics of the state; and much more
• discuss the role violence and deception in the workings of politics
• promote discussion on the political and ethical implications of Machiavelli’s ideas for our contemporary world.

Outcomes

By the end of this