The Prince Theme of Politics

The most important thing in all of The Prince is the stability of the state. Nothing else matters. Machiavelli doesn't care about being "nice" or "good" or moral in this arena. Actually, he was the first theorist to remind us that there is no "ethics" in politics, even though they almost rhyme. Lie, kill, and steal—it's all okay (at least up to a certain point) if it's for the sake of the state. Somehow, though, we get the feeling that most of the political actions in The Prince aren't quite as noble as that. Maybe these rulers are all just out for themselves. Either way, the goal of politics, like the goal of every single other thing in The Prince is to get what you—oops, we mean the state—want.

1. Does Machiavelli make a distinction between the well-being of the state and a ruler's self-interest? If so, what is his distinction? If not, do you think there should be one?
2. What role does warfare play in The Prince's politics?
3. What is the role of the people in the politics of The Prince? Are they important? Why or why not?

The ultimate aim of all politics in The Prince is to enhance the well-being of the kingdom.

Whatever the ruler wants in The Prince is the same as what is best for the nation.