Niccolo' Macchiavelli (by Benjamin John)

Why was he Important?

               He was an Italian philosopher whose ideas play an important role in political theory, morality, and religion. Philosophers for years used statements and writings of Machiavelli some theories of which caused controversy.

Why did you choose this person? How does his life relate to me?

               I chose Niccolo because I think it is very interesting some of the ideas he presents; especially those pertaining to religion. Being religious myself it is cool to get a different perspective on faith.

If he had never existed would the world be different than it is today? Why?

               I do not think that there would be any drastic changes in the world due to the fact that most of what he said or wrote were theories or speculations rather than facts or beliefs. However, some of what Machiavelli theorized about is still under debate and if he hadn’t existed those ideas would not have come to the forefront.

If I could ask him anything what would I ask?

               I would ask him what he thinks of society today and where does he think the human race is headed.

Does the fact that he is Italian play a role in his success?

            His Italian origins may have played a role in his views on religion because I understand that Italy is very big in religion. That being said it is not a guarantee that him being Italian contributes wholly to his success. Many of the predictions or theories made are still very much likely to be thought of in other cultures as well as Italian.