i dont think that politicians should take everything in Machievelli's essay literally because we are living in modern times with a different form of government meaning that we cant assume that war is the consequence for every little discreptincies between other countries and our selves because that would only result in even more choas within the country especially, since we concider ourselves free people with opinions that matter. i think if one was to summarize the basic idea of Machievelli's essay and understand the jist of it, it could be beneficial for modern politicians. for example the idea of knowing your land thoroughly will allow one to have a better understanding of other people's land and it shows pride for your country which i think is essential when in a position to lead a the people of that country.
i think the reason that bush might have wanted to read Machievelli's essay is because it would make Bush feel better about himself, as though it doesnt matter if the people that you lead hate you because you've got a duty to forfill and if you feel you doing whats right then you cant let people hateing you stop you from reaching a goal.
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I believe that Machiavelli was realistic and truthful of political strategies used during the Renaissance and still today. In politics, it is said that perception is reality. Machiavelli descibes just that. For example, it is important to appear generous, than actually be so because then a prince would run out of funds. He explains that a prince "...must be economical; in the second he must not restrain any part of his generosity. And for that prince who goes out with his soldiers and lives by looting, sacking, and ransoms, who controls the property of others, such generosity is necessary; otherwise he would not be followed by his troops." (42) In the case of funds that do not actually belong to the prince, it is wise to give them to his subjects, so that he appears as though he is giving out money when in actuality he is not. This however, would be uncommon today as countries do not normally rape and pillage their enemies, yet the idea of making something appear a certian way in order to make people think a different way is common in politics.
In regards to knowledge of one's terrain I beleieve that it is extremely important. In addition to that, it is important to be skilled militarily because if war arises, a politician or prince should be able to react appropriately at a moments notice.
I personally have completed an honors course in American Politics and Diplomacy. In this course, we were asked to read the Prince becuase most of its ideas are used widely throughout United States politics. Though a few ideas can seem outdated, its essence is the formula for American politics.
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