The+Prince+-+Book+Chat+'08-'09

All about //The Prince// What are you thinking, wondering, etc?

1. In chapter 3, I don't understand how establishing colonies would help princes rule their states. (jh 8/9) Response: Establishing colonies is less expensive than maintaining a military occupation throughout the whole state. If the ruler were to establish military bases throughout the whole state, the inhabitants would become upset and could possibly become enemies of the state. Having enemies in your own state would make it harder to rule since you are constantly trying to put down revolts. (mh 8/12) Response to the response: I understand why it would be better to establish colonies rather than maintaining a military occupation. But why would a prince need to establish colonies in the first place? Why can't he just leave the people alone? (jh 8/12)

2. In chapter 5, Machiavelli said that princes should "ruin" and "destroy" the people. What does he mean by that? Does he mean killing the people? If the princes kill everybody, there will be nobody left in the state to rule over! (jh 8/9) Response: I had the same question too. But I think he's saying that the only way you'll be able to keep possession of the land is to show them your power by destroying it first. Like the example he used with the Romans. (ro 8/13)

3. In chapter 9, what does Machiavelli mean when he says a prince can "secure" himself? And I don't understand why a prince can't secure himself in a hostile environment but can secure himself against the great. Why does he assume that there are more hostile people than great people? (ro 8/13)

4. In chapter 13 (page 56), Machiavelli talks about using other people's arms. He gives the example of Saul giving David his armor to fight Goliath, and Machiavelli goes on to say that using other people's arms doesn't work. He says they "weigh you down, or hold you tight". That just reminds me of when people cheat. Like when people use other people's answers that aren't their own. It just weighs them down, gets them into more trouble, puts them behind in what they're supposed to be learning. (ro 8/13)

5. On page 66, Machiavelli says that as a leader it is better to be feared then to be loved. I disagree because if you are a loved leader, you have respect. And since love is sacrificial, what's better in an army then someone who is willing to give their lives to you. (ro 8/13) Response: I agree with you that it is better to be loved than feared. However, I think it is easier for a leader to inflict fear upon an entire army than to have them love him. (jh 8/14) Reponse to response: That's true too! I agree. (ro 8/14)