Niccolo Machiavelli
Niccolo Machiavelli is one of the most well known political scientists of all time, often being referred to as “the father of modern political science”. He is most well known for his book The Prince, a short manuscript written for the rulers of a state, in which he explained how a ruler should govern. While it is his most well known book, he also wrote others, in The Art of War, Discourses on Livy, Florentine Histories, as well as several plays and essays.
He was born in Florence, Italy, in 1469 and died in 1527, aged 58. At an early age, he joined the Florentine government, just before the Medici were expelled from Florence and the Republic of Florence was restored. He rose quickly in the government, and was an official ambassador, as well as bing responsible for the city’s militia. When the Medici returned to power, he was tortured, but allowed to survive, and he retired to a country home, where he wrote most of his political treatises.
I have chosen him because he is an important figure in world history, so much so that the word “Machiavellian” means “Suggestive of or characterized by expediency, deceit, and cunning.” In addition to being the father of modern political science because of his highly realistic and intelligent analysis of politics, he is also widely reputed as “The first Modern Man”, as he was educated in many topics. I admire his ability to analyze the world and tell it how it is, to understand complicated topics and find the best solution for them.
October 16th, 2009 at 11:29 PM
Now stuying Machiavelli, that could be really interesting. If you put any kind of thought into your speech, you should be golden. The learning center might be more difficult, but I’m sure your interviewee and other resources will give you great ideas.
October 18th, 2009 at 9:49 PM
I think this guy sounds like he’ll be a great choice for you. His ideas are definitely intriguing. I agree with Nick that the learning center might require some thinking, maybe you can do something with theatrics.
~CLare