Reflection #3

Does Machiavelli's wisdom carry significance to our current society?

In Machiavelli's the Prince, the author specifically wrote for the typical renaissance era aristocrat who ruled in the Italian states. During this period of history the different princes and kings were at a loss at controlling the local populace whose constant lust for wealth and power created a rebellious collection of people. However, parts of his speech like on the use of an army and the chapter on fortresses still relate to modern times.

Despite his constant references to the Roman and Greek armies, Machiavelli's stance on the use of an army can easily be referred to today. The author mentions how in the Roman army "they never postponed action in order to avoid a war for they understood that you cannot escape wars, and when put them off only your opponents benefit" (Machiavelli, 11). This act of foreign policy is still used today like the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the 2008 Russian intervention in South Ossetia. While this method creates international outcry, this has proven successful at protecting any threatened populace from harm like the Kurds in Iraq.

The chapter on the use of fortresses is another idea that Machiavelli uses in his belief on foriegn policy. While the use of fortresses became obsolete with the introduction of gunpowder (i.e. the Fall of Constantinople in the 1400s), their purpose is still vital in regions that seem dangerous. For example, after the invasion of Poland the French army created a large network of fortifications trenches and minefields in preparation for a German invasion known as the Maginot Line. Unfortunately, they didn't think to fortify the heavily forested region of the Ardenne so they were easily caught offguard. The practice of fortifications are still considered an necessity during confrontaions on the borders but so far very few nations have considered rebuilding these forts. Overall, Machiavelli provides brief refference to today's military use despite the technological changes that have occurred.