"For most princes apply themselves more to affairs of war than to the useful arts of peace; and in these I neither have any knowledge, nor do I much desire it: they are generally more set on acquiring new kingdoms, right or wrong, than on governing well those they possess. And among the ministers of princes, there are none that are not so wise as to need no assistance, or at least that do not think themselves so wise that they imagine they need none; and if they court any, it is only those for whom the prince has much personal favor, whom by their fawnings and flatteries they endeavor to fix to their own interests: and indeed Nature has so made us that we all love to be flattered, and to please ourselves with our own notions."
This quote from Raphael says a lot about the nature of man. Man craves power and control above all things. He has reason for not wanting to be a counselor for royalty based on the majority of rulers. He recognizes the pride of man and does not want to deal with the arrogance of a prince. He recognizes the selfishness caused by our sinful human nature. However, this does not mean that he should not try to make a difference and offer good advice to a ruler. Even if they do not listen, he should make an effort. He understands what is wrong but he does not seek to make a difference.
I commented on Hannah and Daniel's posts.
I commented on Hannah and Daniel's posts.
A few weeks ago in my small group, we talked about how people never consider themselves "rich", and that they always want more, which is fittingly illustrated in Utopia and your post. It's human nature to always want more, even at the expense of others, which is unfortunate, as it is the root of many conflicts.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I was kind of frustrated with his argument.
ReplyDelete