Machiavelli’s Republicanism Explained

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Machiavelli suggested republic or popular government where it is possible, and monarchy where necessary. He rejected aristocracy and oligarchy as the enemies of all civil governments.

In The Discourses, Machiavelli says that in a monarchy, only one man is free, but in a republic, all are free. In a republic every individual is a ruler; every individual is able to develop and deploy their own virtu in defence of their security, freedom, and property. A republic produces a kind of collective or public virtu that promotes the welfare and security of all. According to Machiavelli, a republic furnishes everyone with both the benefits of cooperation and the opportunity for an individual’s development.

Machiavelli considered republics as more stable than monarchies, more able to defend themselves against adversaries, and more successful at extending their territories. This is because republics allow active citizen participation in the affairs of the State and produce self-reliant and public-spirited individuals.

One of the major benefits of a republic, according to Machiavelli, is the facilitation of open competition among its members. Men are free to express their views and deliberate on public issues. Good laws emerge from such free and open debates and deliberations.

Where the people have a meaningful share in government, they are able to feel secure in their honour, property, and person. Republics therefore act as an effective check on the tyrannies and promote liberty of all.

Machiavelli argues that republics are suitable for societies where people are virtuous. On the other hand, societies where people are corrupt should be ruled by absolute monarchy.

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