If you enjoy reading books by Niccolò Machiavelli then you might also like the following authors:
If you're drawn to Machiavelli's realistic view of power and politics, Thomas Hobbes may interest you. Hobbes deals with authority, power, and political order in clear, straightforward terms.
In his book Leviathan, he argues that humans naturally seek their own interests and require a strong governing authority to maintain peace. Readers who admire Machiavelli's directness and practical approach often find Hobbes insightful and thought-provoking.
John Locke offers a slightly different take on politics and power, emphasizing individual rights and government accountability.
His work Two Treatises of Government argues that authority rests on the consent of the governed and should exist primarily to protect natural rights like life, liberty, and property.
If Machiavelli's views interest you but you're open to a perspective that values individual freedoms, Locke provides a stimulating alternative.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau explores the relationship between individuals and society through ideas about freedom, equality, and collective governance. In The Social Contract, Rousseau claims that true political authority stems from a social agreement among citizens.
His perspective differs notably from Machiavelli by emphasizing community and equality. Still, readers who enjoy considering different visions of society, obligation, and power dynamics would find Rousseau rewarding.
If Machiavelli's practical approach to strategy and leadership appeals to you, Sun Tzu's The Art of War can be just as valuable. Written centuries before Machiavelli, Sun Tzu's text clearly and succinctly addresses strategy, deception, and tactics.
Rather than explicitly political, it provides timeless insights on decision-making, leadership, and conflict management. Readers who appreciate Machiavelli’s tactical mindset will certainly admire Sun Tzu’s approach as well.
Carl von Clausewitz explores war and military strategy in depth, revealing insights useful beyond purely military contexts. In his influential work, On War, Clausewitz examines the complex relationship between warfare, politics, and human nature.
Like Machiavelli, he stresses the pragmatic realities over idealistic thinking. Readers who enjoy analyzing strategic decisions and political realism may find Clausewitz a fascinating author to explore.
If you liked Machiavelli's realistic take on power, Thucydides is worth discovering. He's known for his insightful portrayal of politics and conflict in History of the Peloponnesian War.
Thucydides focuses on real-world power struggles, political motivations, and human behavior without idealism or moralizing. His direct and analytical style offers wisdom that remains relevant today.
Plato approaches politics and society from a different angle than Machiavelli. He writes dialogues featuring discussions that explore ethics, justice, and the ideal state.
In his work The Republic, Plato imagines a philosopher-led society emphasizing virtuous leadership rather than power gained by cunning or force. If you're interested in exploring the idealistic side of political thought, Plato can offer an intriguing contrast to Machiavelli.
Aristotle combines practicality with ethical considerations in his political philosophy. In his book Politics, Aristotle examines various forms of government, citizenship, and justice. He approaches politics methodically, using observation and clear reasoning.
Like Machiavelli, Aristotle looks realistically at human nature and its limits, but also emphasizes virtue and moderation as foundations for a stable society.
If you're intrigued by Machiavelli's concern with the structures of power, Montesquieu might interest you too. His well-known work The Spirit of the Laws analyzes different governmental systems and argues for separation of powers to avoid tyranny.
Montesquieu employs careful reasoning, historical insight, and clear prose. His examination of political liberty and checks on power has significantly influenced modern democratic thought.
Francis Bacon is great to explore if you're drawn to Machiavelli's logical and empirical thinking. In his work The Essays, Bacon writes clearly and thoughtfully about practical issues including power, ambition, and governance.
His concise style and sharp observations reveal an insightful understanding of human nature, ambition, and political maneuvering similar to Machiavelli's realistic approach.
Henry Kissinger's writings appeal to those interested in realistic analyses of international power dynamics and diplomacy. His works reflect a pragmatic view of politics, where outcomes matter more than moral intentions—a perspective Machiavelli would certainly recognize.
In Diplomacy, Kissinger examines the strategies and actions of influential world leaders, emphasizing how states pursue their interests through negotiation, alliances, and carefully balanced power.
Hans Morgenthau is a central figure in political realism, a theory emphasizing power politics over idealism and morality. Like Machiavelli, Morgenthau views politics as driven by human nature, power struggles, and conflicting interests.
His influential book, Politics Among Nations, explains how nations behave realistically to survive and dominate in a competitive international arena.
If you like Machiavelli's candid insights into power and manipulation, you'll find Robert Greene equally engaging. His books examine timeless truths about power, strategy, and human behavior, combining historical examples with direct, clear advice.
In The 48 Laws of Power, Greene provides thought-provoking principles to navigate the complexities of power dynamics, ambition, and influence.
Leo Strauss explores political philosophy and classical texts with profound seriousness, challenging readers to reconsider conventional interpretations of philosophers like Machiavelli.
He believes classic texts have deeper, hidden meanings—often emphasizing political realism and skepticism toward idealistic politics.
Strauss's notable book, Thoughts on Machiavelli, reinterprets Machiavelli's ideas, highlighting subtle and controversial intentions behind his writings.
Isaiah Berlin offers insightful analysis of political thinking and the values underpinning modern societies. He thoughtfully explores the tension between differing moral and political ideals, believing no single ideal can satisfy all human aspirations.
His essay, The Originality of Machiavelli, considers Machiavelli's revolutionary break from previous traditions and examines the enduring relevance and ethical puzzles his ideas present.