Niccolo Machiavelli (1469 -1527)

His political philosophy was influenced by the socio-political situation of his time. His two books: The Discourse, approves a republican government, The Prince advocates for an absolute monarch. For him, a republican (self) government is more desirable, but for a corrupt society what is required is a strong government. In the Prince, Machiavelli advises that the ruler should develop the art of deception, and do anything necessary for political survival. He envisioned a double standard of behaviour. While the ruled are to adhere to christian ethics, the ruler is to be free to act as the occasion demands.