Discourses on Livy
Discourses on Livy
Niccolò Machiavelli
Peter Thiel
Something in these pages planted itself deep into [Peter Thiel]’s mind when he first read it long ago. - Ryan Holiday
+
1
All books

Discourses on Livy

Discourses on Livy

Niccolò Machiavelli
By
Niccolò Machiavelli
4.1
9165
ratings on Goodreads

In "Discourses on Livy," Niccolò Machiavelli unfolds a comprehensive exploration of political philosophy, drawing upon the historical accounts of Titus Livius (Livy) to dissect the anatomy of the republic and the dynamics of power. This seminal work diverges from the notorious realism of "The Prince," offering instead a detailed scrutiny of the virtues and vices that steer the fate of republics. Through the lens of Livy's chronicles of the Roman Republic, Machiavelli articulates a vision of governance that is as radical as it is pragmatic, advocating for a balance between the needs of the many and the ambitions of the few. His analysis extends beyond the ancient Roman context, proposing a universal framework for understanding political life and its perennial challenges. Machiavelli's "Discourses on Livy" is not merely a commentary on ancient texts but a pioneering treatise that laid the groundwork for modern political thought. With an astute understanding of human nature and an unyielding realism, Machiavelli navigates the complexities of leadership, civic virtue, and warfare, arguing for the necessity of adaptability and strategic foresight in the pursuit of stability and prosperity. This work, characterized by its depth of insight and eloquent argumentation, continues to resonate with and influence contemporary discussions on governance, demonstrating Machiavelli's enduring relevance as a thinker who dared to question the established norms of his time and envision a new science of politics.

Read more
Released
1517
1 Jan
Length
367
Pages

1

recommendations

recommendation

Something in these pages planted itself deep into [Peter Thiel]’s mind when he first read it long ago. - Ryan Holiday
Men are driven by two principal impulses, either by love or by fear.
— Niccolò Machiavelli, Discourses on Livy

Similar recommendations

View all
The Prince
The Prince
Niccolò Machiavelli
8
people
person
The Republic
6
people
person
Begin Again
Begin Again
Eddie S. Glaude Jr.
4
people
person
Why We're Polarized
4
people
person
Expert Political Judgment
Expert Political Judgment
Philip E. Tetlock
3
people
person
Shattered
Shattered
Jonathan Allen
3
people
person
Political Order and Political Decay
2
people
person
Rules for Radicals
Rules for Radicals
Saul D. Alinsky
2
people
person
The Madness of Crowds
The Madness of Crowds
Douglas Murray
2
people
person

This site is part of Amazon’s Associates Program. Purchasing books recommended by successful individuals through my links earns us a small commission, helping keep the site running, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our site!