Ethics In Niccolo Machiavelli's The Morals Of The Prince

Morals. Virtues. Ethics. The study of philosophy consists of theories and anecdotes by handfuls of philosophers who try to make sense of human nature. What defines right and wrong? If the goal is to be virtuous, then why are we so attracted to vices? In Niccolo Machiavelli 's essay, “The Morals of the Prince,” he struggles with what a prince, or any leader, should strive for - love or fear? For Machiavelli, the end goal for someone with authority is power and whatever means are necessary to gain and maintain this power should be justified. Machiavelli asserts that morality should not be considered, because it is “impossible to have and exercise [each and every virtue]” (page. 502). Instead, the prince must look at what results in the best

Although most people might agree with this ethical theory at first glance, more people would see flaws in this idea if they thoroughly considered it. Children are generally raised to feel guilt when they commit a wrong act. And yet, as they grow up, immoral behavior is accepted more and more, as long as it benefits someone somehow. Our society is built around self-help. In a dog-eat-dog world, selfish and harmful behavior is accepted in the name of personal success. One might even be seen as weak if they choose to act in a way that does not directly benefit himself. Although this self-interested behavior is encouraged, there is a line between selfish behavior and situational morality. This line supports a more utilitarian view on morals - a view that Machiavelli supports in his essay. Rather than all non-virtuous acts being wicked and preventing happiness, a more reasonable argument is that an action is right if it brings about the greatest pleasure for the most people. Machiavelli urges the prince to consider both himself and his people when making a decision, and to make the decision that will benefit, even if only hypothetical, the most people. As in his argument for stinginess in the case of a potential financial problem in the kingdom, Machiavelli asserts that this vice will only put the prince and his kingdom at an advantage in

Some philosophers argue that any lie, even an innocent lie, is malicious and immoral. This means that parents should not tell their young children that the Easter Bunny exists, or Santa Claus, or the Tooth Fairy. This also means that any white lie about one’s true opinions of an outfit or their feelings toward an undesired birthday gift would be immoral. This idea is not realistic. Telling the whole truth all the time would not only damage relationships, but it would also leave many kids without an imagination and without the joy that these imaginary characters often bring. Another more complicated example is with monetary greed. As a member of the methodist church, I have been taught to give what I have to those in need. This might mean that I should dig into my wallet when I see a man holding a cardboard sign on the highway. Or it could mean that whenever I encounter a charity, I should donate to support the cause. As a young adult however, I just don’t have this kind of money. I cannot work during the school year, so I have to make my summer earnings last throughout the year. If I were to constantly donate my extra funds to others in need, I would quickly find myself with similar needs. In this instance, my greed is justified. It is okay for me to save my money, and use it where I want. It shouldn’t be immoral for me to