Abstract

The question of Machiavellianism is whether the use of immoral techniques is necessary to achieve political aims. Can a ruler's policy be submitted to ordinary ethical norms ? The theory of the incompatibility between morality and politics is partly due to an incorrect conception of the nature of both. Machiavelli rightly warns us against the abuse of an abstract moralism in political matters; he indirectly shows that the politician has to pursue limited political ideals and must possess specific skills. But, on the other hand, Machiavelli misunderstood the very nature of political power, because of his ontology of social reality: he sees the political community as a mechanistic system rather than as a living whole. Therefore, the Machiavellian ruler lacks real power and is not assured of enduring success