Machiavelli's Political Theory

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from Machiavelli's political theory as discussed in the lecture notes.

Janus

The Roman god depicted with two faces, representing the past and the future.

Prudence

Wisdom that comes from past experience, present judgment, and future foresight.

Parsimony

The virtue of careful spending and avoiding waste.

Fortuna

The concept of fortune or luck that controls half of human affairs.

Virtù

Machiavelli's notion of skill, courage, and practical ability in political action.

Effectual truth

The study of how politics works in reality, as opposed to ideal philosophical theories.

Conflict

Machiavelli views social and political conflict as healthy and necessary for a strong republic.

Principalities

Political systems ruled by one person or family, where managing people's love and fear is crucial.

Republics

Political systems where citizens share power, requiring economic equality and participation.

Spectacle violence

The use of violence as a performance to instill fear and maintain order among the populace.