On Machiavelli — Advice from Italy’s (In)famous Military Strategist
203,880
Published 2017-03-14
Whether it’s his style or substance that makes readers bristle, Viroli says there is no doubt he was politically astute. What’s more, he possessed “a rare wisdom of life — that is to say, the wisdom that would teach us to live a meaningful life.”
The problem for those in industry, says Viroli, is that Machiavelli knew nothing of business, nor was he even tempted to learn. But most pieces of usable wisdom often have applications beyond their intended topic.
Viroli, who taught at Princeton before joining the Liberal Arts faculty at UT, cautions that before dissecting Machiavelli’s writings, one thing above all must be remembered: He aimed to inspire and instruct great political leaders, not the ordinary or mediocre. “If we want to apply his counsel to business, it must be to inspire great leaders — a prince of business.” Can it be done?
All Comments (21)
-
"My poverty is the evidence of my honesty" Very beautiful and deep quote.
-
This is the reality of the corporate world. You have to be able to play office politics, or at least have a deep understanding of them, to get ahead in your career. It doesn't mean stepping over other people but rather not allowing others to step over you. I think The Prince is a great guide for those who may be naturally too nice for the realities of decades in a competitive environment, but everyone can benefit from it. It teaches you to be aware of how some people operate. They never really cover this in business schools. Don't be naive or too idealistic and you'll be okay.
-
He understands the importance of the game
-
I love the sound of his voice, he is a brilliant lecturer. I wouldnt want to hear about Machiavelli without the accent. And Mr. Viroli also looks like he may have just stepped out of the Renaissance.
-
"y'all was a major breakthrough in my experience"
-
Excellent Lecture! Bravo
-
I think you nailed it , theres a ring to truth that cannot be denied .
-
He really broke it down for me in simple terms. ( And I love his hair 😍) It leads to examine my loyalties in business and politics.
-
Excellent indeed !!!
-
Well presented lecture. I enjoyed on the clarification and implications of businessman and politicians tryimg to run the state as a coorperation and vice versa. Kindly also avail the links to resources / literature. Modern day examples are also welcome.
-
Totally loved his accent , humour & deep knowledge, thank you 😊
-
This entire philosophy summed up: "Dont hate the player. Hate the game."
-
I think it takes a lot of courage to go to another country and learn a different language, let alone be teased/shamed for not sounding exactly like the people of that country, in this case, American English. And how about the culture shock? This professor took a huge leap of faith taking and interview and ultimately landing the job, so many years ago. Like him, let's seek to embrace and understand one another's differences. How about any one of us move to Italy or any other country and learn THEIR language, let alone sound exactly like them. English is not every country's first or even 2nd language.
-
You know, he points out one interesting detail of Machiavelli's thought that I had completely missed. That his book as aimed at great leaders, (or leaders of great ability). Since there are a lot of Machavelli wanna be-s out there, one issue that ought to be addressed is whether one really is this sort of person.
-
Knowledge is of no use except when it is applied to make the existence a better experience for our fellow human beings.
-
That’s my professor!!!!!!!!
-
7:17 - A great leader
-
Wonderful. Watched many speeches online of this man Prof. Mr. Viroli. Much respect! I have not found an equal expert on Macchiavelli's works in my opinion.
-
Dear prof. very super lecture.
-
Valuable lecture ⭐
