Machiavelli and the importance of Realpolitik

“... all men are wicked and … will always give vent to the malignity that is in their hearts when opportunity offers.” Explore how Machiavelli’s philosophy of fortune and power still resonates with the statecraft and realpolitik of today.

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Key course information

Date
22/10/11

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HP055

Availability
This course has finished

No concessionary fees are available as the limit has been reached.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

The contemporary relevance of Machiavelli's philosophy.
As a philosopher of power, Machiavelli was amongst the first in the modern age to attempt to think about the nature of politics from a realist, rather than a moralist, perspective. As such, he may be considered a key originator of contemporary political science and the analysis of statecraft. What is perhaps less well known is that he is also a key figure in the development of republican (public interest) politics. Machiavelli’s thought remains relevant to understanding the different forms that power takes, and provides a useful framework for thinking about its uses and abuses.

What topics will we cover?

Machiavelli's views on:
a) The nature of people and the nature and forms of power;
b) Realpolitik: goals and strategies, words, images, actions, and force;
c) Fortune, ‘civic virtue’, and chance in human affairs;
d) A flourishing republic as the end to which power is deployed.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Explain how Machiavelli's view of human nature informs his view of the uses and abuses of power.
Discuss some of the benefits and costs of 'Machiavellian' Realpolitik.
Discuss the difference between power as a means and as an end-in-itself.
Evaluate whether the flourishing of a state justifies the means used to maintain that flourishing.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No prior knowledge is assumed, and the level will tend to adjust to the overall level of participants. However, a rough guide would be that of BBC Radio 3 or 4 humanities programmes such as 'In Our Time', 'Reith Lectures' or 'The Essay'. A willingness to critically and creatively engage with ideas and some basic familiarity with discussion/debate, argument, and evaluation will be beneficial.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The sessions are ‘open learning’ format - i.e., questions and discussion are not only welcomed but are central to our thinking through the topics presented. However, given the limitations of time and the different wishes and interests of participants (some engage more by listening, some more by talking), discussions may sometimes be shortened. Course topics will be covered by short verbal presentations supported by slides, including any relevant video clips. Slides and other materials will be available online. There is no set work outside the class.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No special equipment is required, other than for note-taking as preferred.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.