per in the early sixteenth century. In order to determine his relevance to common people today, one must examine these themes very closely. (C2.)HUMAN NATURE Machiavelli credited the idea that human nature has and always will remain the same. For this reason he felt comfortable using examples from biblical times to illustrate his points of view. According to Machiavelli's logic all the characteristics he wrote of are found in humans today, because their instincts will never change. He concedes that there are exceptions where people are capable of doing benevolent or amazing feats, but by and large he viewed people as ungrateful, covetous, and insecure creatures. (Wood, p.506-507) This outlook on mankind was in part a product of personal observations. It also takes roots in the medieval church doctrine which said that Original Sin prevented the existence of pure moral behavior amongst common people. (C2.)THE CONTRAST BETWEEN THE IDEAL AND THE REAL Machiavelli acknowledged that in the past many brilliant men had attempted to simplify government into a formula. According to him, the most important reason why his theories are superior to their prior theories, is that they are not dependent on people always acting morally and virtuously. Machiavelli has no doubt that it would be preferable to live in a world of people with perfect morals, but that world is a fantasy, and as such there is no need to dwell upon it. In the world we live in, a person puts himself at a severe disadvantage if he believes that everyone wants to do what is "right." Machiavelli affirms the value of a ruler who appears admirable, and also is admirable, but a sovereign body who intends to stay sovereign, has no choice but to act immorally on occasion, when one's power is at stake. (C2.)"VIRTU" The Italian word, "virtu" pertains to strength of character and force of will rather than righteousness, as in English. Machiavelli believed that to successfully run a governme...
