Logical reasoning devoid of ethics. A prince has two options: benevolence and destruction.

Because the latter option will cause resentment among the people, he should choose it only if he is absolutely
sure there will be no ill consequencesthat the destruction he incurs will eliminate or disable any parties that
might seek to revenge themselves against him. Feelings of pity or compassion are meaningless. Self-interest
and self-protection are in this case the motivating factors and are to be pursued ruthlessly.

Implies that purpose of government is stability of the state and maintaining control
Differs from Aristotle who thought that free citizens were the reason for the states existence.
He was interested in the welfare of the communityMachiavelli does not exhibit this.
Amoral advice demonstrates separation between ethics and politics
Advises killing off family of former ruler and violently suppressing revolts and
insurrections. Unlike Greeks who had a close relationship between politics and ethics
Describes nature of new acquired principalities
Argues that acquisition of states by pure fortune will lend to weak ruling and less power
since there is a bad foundation of ruling.