Lao-tzu vs. Machiavelli 

Lao-tzu's style of Government

    According to Thoughts for the Tao-te Ching Lao-tzu had many strong beliefs in how a government should be run. He states that there is an abundance of powerful people then there would be no person that would have power over another and that if the population is allowed to become materialistic then the government will witness an increase in crime. He calls for the leader to take action only when needed for the good of his subjects however, he must also inspire his subjects spiritually so that they comply with his orders. He must instill new beliefs in his people so as to make his government strong. Lao-tzu believed that it is best to be loved as a leader as opposed to being feared or despised. To have trust in the subjects is to them having trust in their ruler. They may not hear their leader speak of what he is to do but to see the little action of help he sends their way. He calls to take away the burdens of religion and knowledge to make people happier because they will not know any different. He also says that if there is no justice system then people will act correctly. In his writing, he states that a ruler should stay put and let the world take its course as he will lose touch with his root and that a ruler should not try to improve the world just simply live on it. The leader must treat the world with respect and remain at the center of conflicts and let them take their own course. 

    Lao-tzu also believed that if the leader accepted himself for who he was the world would accept him as just that and that he does his job when needed but no more because then it is out of his control. The leader should detest weapons of all kinds and take no joy in sending an army into battle even when their troops are victorious. The leader must never search for more power however he stays powerful because of this. Lao-tzu also states that if the people lose everything leading up to ritual and then proceed to lose that too then the whole world will descend into chaos. A great leader must let go of everything materialistic and form a semblance of peace for his people.

Painting of Lao-tzu

Machiavelli's style of Government

    Machiavelli believed that a great leader should always think about war according to his writing, The Qualities of the Prince. No matter if it is how to defeat an attack on the province or studying the successes and defeats of others in the past. He also believes that a great leader should choose someone of great success and copy their way of riling. A leader should explore their land so that they know the best vantage points to win a battle. Machiavelli also believed that a leader could not be generous to his subjects because he would have to keep it up in turn exhausting all funds, resulting in high taxes. He also believed that it was easier to be feared than loved, therefore making it easier to rule.

A Comparison of Lao-tzu and Machiavelli

    Lao-tzu believed that to be loved and compassionate towards one's subjects was the best way to rule. However, Machiavelli believed it was better to be feared and keep a mind for war at all times. Personally, I would say that there are bits and pieces that should be taken from each writing. I believe that it would best for the world to implement a combination of both their ideas.