Virtue and the Double Standard
Virtue and the Double Standard
Does Machiavelli operate with a different standard for the public (virtue) than or the private sphere (goodness)? What is his understanding of virtue and immorality? Plamenatz argues that the double standard is widespread. He examines Machiavelli’s ‘magnificent crimes’ and his condoning or excusing of them, and the underlying philosophy, which values lasting fame and reputation. He identifies a number of heroic virtues in Machiavelli, which may be displayed in morally good or morally bad ways.
Keywords: Machiavelli, public, private, ambition, virtue, fame, reputation, evil, heroism, fortune, corruption, Christianity, humility, Agathocles, Borgia
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