The Last Days Of Socrates And Niccolo Machiavelli s The...

Two of the most significant works in literature, setting the basis and framework for political philosophy, are Plato’s The Last Days of Socrates, and Niccolo Machiavelli’s The Prince and The Discourses. Both pieces take place during political uncertainty with surrounding societal turmoil. Each take a different approach to how these issues must be dealt with. They each have their own construct of an ideal political regime which, at times overlap, but at others do not. Machiavelli seeks to gain power and wealth while Socrates seeks to gain knowledge and justice. It is because of these differences that Socrates would disapprove of Machiavelli’s concept of a prince, thus resulting him in having a different concept based on his values that he†¦show more content†¦In Machiavelli’s case, it is unclear whether or not his work is serious and of his own beliefs or rather a satire argument, desperate to get a response. Regardless, this is a possible explanat ion of his pessimism towards society and his exaggerated use for violence and manipulation for control. Plato’s account of Socrates was during a time of political transition which also resulted in a weak political system at the time. The newfound democracy was based on a tradition of obeying the gods, and by Socrates questioning democracy, he was viewed as questioning the gods. However, this was far from the case. Socrates was merely basing his beliefs on an Oracle which ultimately stated he was the wisest of men because he was aware of his ignorance. This sparked his quest for knowledge and justice by questioning the leaders of his government and spreading his beliefs or lack thereof to others. This explains why Socrates would disapprove of Machiavelli’s concept of a prince because of the contexts in which each of their values were created. Socrates strongly believes in morality to acquire justice in his ideal government, while Machiavelli believes morality is the dow nfall of a leader, and must be deceitful to acquire power. Knowing the context of each work, however, helps one understand their viewpoints better and why Socrates would disagree with Machiavelli. In, The Prince and theShow MoreRelatedSocrates And Niccolo Machiavelli1735 Words   |  7 PagesEssay 1: Socrates and Machiavelli Although Socrates and Niccolo Machiavelli lived in different time periods, the political climate that their philosophies were founded on were very similar. The trial of Socrates began after the Peloponnesian War when the new Spartan Tyranny took over the Athenian government. Socrates was accused of corrupting the youth and disrespecting the gods by the Spartan government. In the eyes of the Spartan government Socrates is a gadfly because of his posing of upsetting