Overview
This lecture explores the significance of Machiavelli as the founder of modernity, focusing on his critiques of Christianity and classical tradition, the concept of necessity, the effectual truth, and his foundational influence on modern political philosophy and science.
Machiavelli’s Critique of Christianity
- Machiavelli saw Christianity as both too cruel (demanding more than humans can do) and too weak (lacking worldly power).
- Christianity places honor in the next world, while Machiavelli wanted honor and meaning in this world.
- He admired religions like Islam for their combination of prophetic and conquering strength.
Against the Classical Tradition
- Machiavelli was more interested in classical political action and conflict (as in Rome) than in the philosophical ideals of Plato or Aristotle.
- He believed the rivalry and disharmony in Rome produced strength, but Rome’s weakness led to its fall to Christianity.
The Prince, Power, and Virtue
- Machiavelli’s ideal prince combines the conqueror (like Caesar) and the prophet (like Christ or Muhammad).
- He distrusted nobles/aristocrats for self-interest, seeing the prince as the unifying "one alone" (uno solo).
- Political power and glory are central, often pursued for self-interest and recognition by the masses.
Necessity and Acquisition
- Machiavelli replaced traditional morality with the idea of necessity—people act out of need, not inherent goodness.
- Necessity drives continuous acquisition—glory and material goods are both pursued, but glory is higher.
- The acquisition impulse underlies both survival and the quest for honor.
Effectual Truth and Modern Science
- Machiavelli introduced the idea of "effectual truth"—truth defined by tangible outcomes and real effects.
- This approach influenced modern science, prioritizing causes and effects (efficient cause) and experimentation.
- Modern knowledge focuses on facts (what actually happens), in contrast to Greek eternal truths.
Political Innovations and Modernity
- Machiavelli founded concepts like executive power, indirect government, party politics, and the primacy of foreign over domestic policy.
- He believed effective government often operates through hidden or conspiratorial power.
- The individual and acquisition became central to modern liberal and capitalist societies.
Lasting Influence and Criticisms
- Machiavelli’s framework made possible the development of modern rational control and progress through effectual truth.
- Critics argue modernity lost spiritual vitality, reducing virtue to necessity and effect.
- Machiavelli is seen as both the founder and the best critic of modernity.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Necessity — The idea that human actions are driven by urgent needs, not moral ideals.
- Effectual Truth — Truth defined by its real-world results, not by ideals or intentions.
- Uno solo — The “one alone,” or singular leader who unites power.
- Glory — The highest form of honor or recognition, valued above material gain.
- Executive Power — The ability to enforce decisions, often claiming legitimacy by serving a higher authority.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Machiavelli’s The Prince and Discourses for examples of power, necessity, and effectual truth.
- Reflect on how modern science and politics adopt Machiavellian principles.
- Read about Machiavelli’s influence on modern liberal and capitalist thought.