Key Concepts from Augustine and Machiavelli

These flashcards cover key concepts from Augustine's and Machiavelli's political theories, including natural law, the role of the church and state, political authority, and the principles of Machiavellian politics.

What event prompted Augustine to write The City of God?

The Visigothic sack of Rome in 410 AD.

What is Aquinas’ core idea?

Natural law reflects God’s order.

How does Augustine define the Civitas Terrena?

A city driven by self-love, lust for power, and earthly success.

What is natural law?

Moral truth we understand by reason.

How does Augustine define the Civitas Dei?

A city rooted in love of God, seeking eternal salvation.

What’s the goal of politics according to Augustine?

The common good.

Why are the two cities (Civitas Terrena and Civitas Dei) not spatial entities?

They symbolize contrasting moral orientations and ways of life.

How is the common good different from individual good?

It benefits all, not just individuals.

What is the ultimate goal of the Civitas Dei?

Eternal peace and union with God.

What’s the ruler’s duty in Augustine's view?

Guide society toward justice.

How does Augustine describe political authority in the earthly city?

As corrupt, unstable, and subject to decay.

How are natural and human law connected?

Human law is based on natural law, which provides its moral foundation.

What role does peregrinatio play in Augustine’s theology?

It represents the Christian journey through a corrupt world toward God.

How does Aquinas view the relation between church and state?

Church guides individuals toward salvation; state ensures order and justice.

How does Augustine view the church and state relationship?

The church is the moral guide, the state is necessary but flawed.

Does Aquinas support theocracy?

No, he believes in a balanced relationship between spiritual and political realms.

Why does Augustine critique Roman political ideals?

Rome’s pursuit of glory was rooted in pride and domination.

What makes a law valid?

It aligns with natural law.

How does Augustine’s dichotomy influence later political thought?

It shaped medieval theories on church-state relations and moral authority.

What is the Doctrine of Double Effect?

It allows actions with both good and bad effects if the intention is good.

What is virtù in Machiavelli’s context?

The skill, strength, and adaptability of a ruler to maintain power.

What is the purpose of the Doctrine of Double Effect?

To justify morally difficult decisions where harm is unavoidable.

How does Machiavelli define necessità?

The unavoidable need to act decisively to protect the state.

How does fortuna influence politics?

It represents unpredictable events that affect power which rulers must navigate.

What is Machiavelli’s primary concern in The Prince?

Maintaining stability and power, even through immoral means.

How does Machiavelli separate politics from ethics?

He argues that rulers should prioritize power, not morality.

Why does Machiavelli advocate for cruelty when necessary?

To instill fear and prevent disorder.

How does Machiavelli view human nature?

As self-interested, unreliable, and prone to chaos.

Why is Discourses on Livy different from The Prince?

It focuses more on republican principles and civic virtue.

What role does deception play in Machiavellian politics?

Deception is a tool for maintaining stability and control.