Lao-Tzu vs. Machiavelli

    There are many significant differences when it comes to Lao-Tzu and Machiavelli's governing processes. Lao-Tzu believed in a more relaxed state of governing. He believed that the less the government intervened the better the system would be. Lao-Tzu thought the more they stepped in, the more the citizens would feel the need to act out and not feel trusted. The government should only step in when absolutely necessary.

      Machiavelli had a different perspective when it came to governing. Machiavelli was more similar to a well oiled machine. His practices were more based off of morals and traditions. The only code followed by a Machiavellian prince was the "acquisition, retention, and expansion of power." He believed that a prince should do whatever it was in his power to maintain his state. He also at the same time tired to inflict fear in the process. He taught the prince's to use the art of deception and inspire fear if they wanted to be successful.