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The Prince What is Machiavelli's view of human nature? While reading The Prince, I have come to a conclusion that Machiavelli demonstrates a view of governing a state that is so different from that of humanists of his time thought. The humanists of Machiavelli's time believed that an individual had a lot to offer to the well being of the state and should be able to help in whatever way necessary. Humanists also believed that an individual grew to maturity through participation in the state and understanding in what was taking place in the state. Machiavelli strongly promoted a secular society and felt morality was not necessary but in fact stood in the way of an effectively governed principality. Machiavelli believes the ruling Prince should be the sole authority determining every aspect of the state and put in effect a policy which would serve his best interests. These interests dealt with gaining and expanding his political power. In other words, he felt the best and appropriate w ay to live was how the prince wanted us to live. Just to point this out (so I get the whole 2.5 this time) Machiavelli did not feel that a Prince should mistreat the citizens. Machiavelli goes on to talk about honor and how one can gain such an element (hanging out with me and Derek will help out, but then again, we weren't around during that time). He suggests that a prince must be readily willing to deceive the citizens, afterall, he is the head honcho. Machiavelli also brings up the point that a prince must also deceive those who attempt to make him feel good (Maybe because they were trying to take advantage of him). As I stated previously, he promotes a secular form of politics. His views were to the benefit of the prince, in helping him maintain power rather than to serve to the well being of the citizens.