Machiavelli vs Aung San Suu Kyi

Machiavelli vs Aung San Suu Kyi

  • Submitted By: embassy
  • Date Submitted: 10/11/2008 7:42 PM
  • Category: Philosophy
  • Words: 724
  • Page: 3
  • Views: 430

Throughout history, the means of controlling a government has been debated and changed numerous times. Since the ancient world, many philosophers have developed there own theories, with hopes to sway an opposing view to the main stream. Two legendary historical figures, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Aung San Suu Kyi, have challenged the public in an attempt to influence the world. Although it is speculation, Niccolo Machiavelli’s concept of government is more advisable then Aung San Suu Kyi’s.
Due to the fact that Niccolo’s book, The Prince, was created in the 1500’s, it makes him appear more prestigious in a sense. Over the years, his writings have been taught and passed around, gaining respect from the people who have read it. This is evident due to the fact it is still included in many school’s curriculums involving history and English till this day. Additionally, the book has been mentioned in movie blockbusters such as “Goodfellas”, a classic American movie that includes a mob leader teaching a younger teenager the concepts of Machiavelli. On the other hand, Aung San Suu Kyi does not have as long of a track record. Descending from Japan in the 1900’s, Aung San Suu Kyi has been constricted and silenced for years. Regardless of her efforts, she hasn’t had the opportunity to exercise her theories to the fullest, which decreases her advisability from a government standpoint.
The difference in concepts concerning government is so converse between the two that it makes for an interesting debate. However, in a world where strength and power dominates over the weak, Kyi’s views are generally unrealistic, but with good intent. It would be miraculous to live in a country with a government opposing violence, opposition, and anger. Unfortunately, it is in human nature to be selfish, disloyal, and protective in order to get ahead in life. Machiavelli took human nature into consideration, and decided to not instruct leaders to be moral, but rather attempt to show them how...

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