"The Prince"

Paper Summary:

This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the book, "The Prince," written by Niccolo Machiavelli. Specifically, it discusses the disadvantages of being defenseless or helpless in the face of attack according to Machiavelli's writing. The paper analyzes his argument that defense is entirely necessary for a successful nation and a successful ruler and that defenselessness only leads to weakness and commonality.

From the Paper:

"In conclusion, defenselessness is simply another word for the suicide of a nation. A nation that does not engage in active defense is a nation without leadership and strength. A leader who is afraid to defend his nation is a leader who will not succeed. The dream of peace is a noble dream, but leaders who succumb to dreams of peace without the reality of a defense strategy will only lead their nations to failure and submission. Dreams are wonderful for philosophers, but they do not create the defense necessary to keep a nation and her citizens safe from harm. As long as there is evil in the world, there will be aggression and the need for a strong defense. A leader who does not recognize that is not really a leader, but a murderer, leaving his citizens open to the aggression and destruction of others. War is a reality, and so is the defense of any successful nation."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Machiavelli, Niccolo. "The Qualities of the Prince." A World of Ideas: Essential Readings for College Writers. Jacobus, Lee A. ed. New York: Bedford/St. Martins, 2006. 35-49.

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