by Niccolo Machiavelli (1469–1527), an Italian Renaissance political philosopher, is a central figure in the development of political realism. His seminal work, The Prince (1532), is often regarded as a foundational text for realist thought in politics and international relations. Machiavelli’s ideas about power, leadership, and statecraft challenge idealistic and moralistic approaches to politics, emphasizing instead the pragmatic and often ruthless realities of political life. Here’s how Machiavelli connects to political realism:
1. Focus on Power and Survival
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli argues that the primary goal of a ruler is to acquire and maintain power. He emphasizes that a leader must do whatever is necessary to ensure the survival and stability of the state, even if it involves morally questionable actions.
- Political Realism: This aligns with the realist view that states (and their leaders) must prioritize power and survival above all else. Realists argue that the anarchic nature of the international system forces states to act in their self-interest, often at the expense of ethical considerations.
2. Separation of Politics and Morality
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli is famous for arguing that politics should be separated from morality. He contends that a ruler must be willing to act immorally—such as lying, deceiving, or using force—if it serves the greater good of the state. His dictum “the ends justify the means” encapsulates this pragmatic approach.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly argue that moral principles are often irrelevant or even detrimental in the realm of politics. They believe that states must prioritize practical outcomes over ethical considerations to survive and thrive in a competitive international system.
3. Human Nature and Self-Interest
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli has a pessimistic view of human nature, seeing people as inherently self-interested, untrustworthy, and prone to corruption. He advises rulers to act accordingly, relying on fear rather than love to maintain control.
- Political Realism: Classical realists like Hans Morgenthau also emphasize the role of human nature in politics, arguing that the desire for power and self-interest drives state behavior. This shared view of human nature underpins much of realist thought.
4. The Importance of Fear and Force
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli argues that it is better for a ruler to be feared than loved, as fear is more reliable and enduring. He also emphasizes the importance of military strength and the use of force to achieve political goals.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly stress the importance of military power and coercion in international relations. They argue that states must be prepared to use force to protect their interests and deter potential adversaries.
5. Pragmatism and Flexibility
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli advises rulers to be pragmatic and adaptable, adjusting their strategies to changing circumstances. He warns against rigid adherence to ideals or principles, which can lead to failure.
- Political Realism: Realists advocate for a pragmatic approach to international relations, emphasizing the need for states to respond flexibly to shifts in the balance of power and other geopolitical realities.
6. The Role of Fortuna (Chance) and Virtù (Skill)
- *Machiavelli: Machiavelli introduces the concepts of *Fortuna (chance or fortune) and Virtù (skill or ability). He argues that while chance plays a role in politics, a skilled leader can shape events through decisive action and strategic thinking.
- Political Realism: Realists acknowledge the role of uncertainty and unpredictability in international relations but emphasize the importance of strategic planning and statecraft to navigate these challenges.
7. Critique of Idealism
- Machiavelli: Machiavelli’s work is a direct critique of idealistic approaches to politics, such as those advocated by classical philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. He rejects the idea that rulers should strive to be morally virtuous, instead focusing on practical effectiveness.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly critique idealism in international relations, arguing that utopian visions of global harmony and cooperation are unrealistic in a world dominated by power politics.
8. The State as the Highest Priority
- Machiavelli: For Machiavelli, the stability and security of the state are the highest priorities. He argues that the ruler’s primary duty is to protect the state, even if it requires harsh or unpopular measures.
- Political Realism: Realists view the state as the central actor in international relations and prioritize its survival and security above all else. They argue that states must act in their self-interest to maintain their sovereignty and independence.
Conclusion:
Machiavelli’s ideas about power, leadership, and statecraft have had a profound influence on political realism. His emphasis on pragmatism, the separation of politics and morality, and the centrality of power and survival resonates strongly with the core principles of realist thought. While Machiavelli focused primarily on domestic politics and the behavior of rulers, his insights have been extended to the international realm by later realist thinkers. As a result, Machiavelli is often regarded as one of the earliest and most important contributors to the realist tradition in political theory.
