Inheritance, power, culture w/ Evan Amato

Written in the early 16th century, 'The Prince' is a realistic instruction guide for new rulers. Machiavelli argues that an effective leader must be skilled in the art of war, sometimes cruel, and willing to use deception and manipulation to achieve political goals. The book is divided into chapters that discuss various types of principalities, how to acquire and maintain power, and the qualities a prince should possess. Machiavelli uses historical examples, including the career of Cesare Borgia, to illustrate his points. The treatise emphasizes the importance of maintaining the goodwill of the people and the stability of the state, even if it means deviating from traditional virtues. 'The Prince' remains a controversial but influential work in modern political philosophy.

De Regno, or 'On Kingship,' by St. Thomas Aquinas, is a treatise on political philosophy and kingship. It offers guidance to rulers on governing justly and achieving the common good, blending Aristotelian political thought with Christian theology. Aquinas emphasizes the ruler's responsibility to promote both the temporal and spiritual well-being of their subjects, balancing material prosperity with spiritual growth. The work explores the relationship between earthly authority and divine providence, highlighting the importance of natural and divine law in governance. It remains a significant text in the history of political philosophy and Catholic social teaching.