Machiavelli's Views in Ch. Xvii and Xviii of the Prince

Chapter XVII and XVIII both emphasize the extent to which a Prince may have to go to maintain the respect and order of those he rules. Chapter XVII introduced the question whether it is better to be loved than be feared, or the reverse. Machiavelli ultimately concludes that it is better to be feared than loved and draws out several justifications to this statement. Chapter XVIII takes the matter further, discussing virtue and honesty and when it is acceptable, in his opinion, to break promises. Both these chapters offer a particularly harsh outlook on leadership, and both significantly contributed to the cognitive meaning of the modern day term 'Machiavellianism'. The term ultimately implies duplicity and is used to negatively portray someone as using manipulation for personal self gain . This term emerged in the 16th century. These two chapters heavily contributed to the eternal meaning of this term.

An underlying theme throughout The Prince is the relationship between goodwill and hatred. Essentially he advocates the use of cruelty so long as it does not affect the long term goodwill of the people. He understands the benefit of goodwill as a public instrument as much as cruelty; both are tools to ensure the stability of a regime. Chapter XVII outlines these themes when he discusses, in explicit detail, just how far a prince can go with cruelty before losing the respect and trust of his people. Often times the quote, "anyone compelled to choose will find greater security in being feared than in being loved, " is misinterpreted to suggest that the prince need not worry about public image. On the contrary, Machiavelli argues that it is critical the subjects do not hate him. Because states, in his opinion, are self-interested actors, in times of struggle they will remain stronger during times of struggle if they are inclined to obey their respected leader.

Moreover, Machiavelli in this chapter discusses methods of ensuring obedience and that citizens follow orders, particularly during times of struggle. He says that the only motivating factor that will guarantee the citizens obedience of the prince's orders is threat of punishment. Although in present day Machiavelli is viewed as having a harsh viewpoint on leadership, one cannot help but notice the truth and accuracy to this point alone. Threat of punishment very may well be the only reason a citizen follows the law. For example, supporters of the death penalty argue that capital punishment is a deterrent; it dissuades people from committing capital crimes . This may also bring up the question of whether laws would be followed if they were not accompanied by a punishment for disobeying. Do people follow the law out of moral obligation? Is it out of respect for the institution? Or is it simply for fear of punishment? Perhaps one answer will never be found on this matter, but it is very clear that Machiavelli's thinking went well beyond his years.