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2.26k reviews for:
The Art of War: Niccolò Machiavelli (Annotated) - Non-Fiction / Human Science / Philosophy / Eastern
Niccolò Machiavelli
3.52 AVERAGE
2.26k reviews for:
The Art of War: Niccolò Machiavelli (Annotated) - Non-Fiction / Human Science / Philosophy / Eastern
Niccolò Machiavelli
3.52 AVERAGE
slow-paced
Certainly an interesting read, this brief series of instructions for princes lay out the foundation on what Machiavelli believed would make a good ruler, and therefore a good state. The application of philosophy onto politics is novel in its execution, and the idea of what sacrifices must be made to be a good ruler make compelling talking points. However, it does feel like half of the book is kind of obvious advice, and as the introduction says, are all made by a guy who never held that kind of power. This work does introduce the idea of the good of the state, how immoral and illegal acts can be justified if they perpetuate and grow the power of the ruling class, or the titular prince. While thought provoking, it ultimately feels too brief to fully explore the ideas presented. 3.7 stars.
A prince who is not wise himself will never take good advice
I don't know why I didn't expect all the references to recent (to Machiavelli) European political intrigues and ancient Roman ones. I need an annotated version or a whole class to explain the examples he used. I thought this would be more like [b:The Art of War|10534|The Art of War|Sun Tzu|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1630683326l/10534._SY75_.jpg|3200649], which was clear advice without real-world examples.
I know that this was a little bit of a cover letter for a job that Machiavelli wanted, which puts another dimension on what he says - he's trying to flatter his future boss and prove his own bonafides.
The man had some good advice and insights, and also helps us peasants see how our leaders can and do manipulate us and rule our worlds.
I don't know why I didn't expect all the references to recent (to Machiavelli) European political intrigues and ancient Roman ones. I need an annotated version or a whole class to explain the examples he used. I thought this would be more like [b:The Art of War|10534|The Art of War|Sun Tzu|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1630683326l/10534._SY75_.jpg|3200649], which was clear advice without real-world examples.
I know that this was a little bit of a cover letter for a job that Machiavelli wanted, which puts another dimension on what he says - he's trying to flatter his future boss and prove his own bonafides.
The man had some good advice and insights, and also helps us peasants see how our leaders can and do manipulate us and rule our worlds.
challenging
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
informative
reflective
medium-paced
I found this very boring I am so sorry to say - maybe I should have paid more attention
informative
reflective
slow-paced
a very interesting read, hard to get into and then hard to put down...
A fascinating and often repellent study in realpolitik - could be titled "The Sociopath's Guide to Success As a Dictator." You will see a lot of the content of current events in this book.
