Machiavelli on how democracies die
May 26, 2025
47 min
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712 of 775
May 26, 2025
Machiavelli on how democracies die
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Gray Area Episodes Around May 26, 2025
Episode 712 of 775 — walk the feed in the order it was published.
Machiavelli on how democracies die
Summary
Almost nothing stands the test of time. Machiavelli's writings are a rare exception.
Why are we still talking about Machiavelli, nearly 500 years after his death? What is it about his political philosophy that feels so important, prescient, or maybe chilling today?
In this episode, Sean speaks with political philosopher and writer Erica Benner about Niccolo Machiavelli’s legacy. The two discuss The Prince, Machiavelli’s views on democracy, and what he might say about the Trump administration were he alive today.
Host: Sean Illing (@SeanIlling)Guest: Erica Benner, political philosopher, historian, and author of Be Like the Fox
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