This book studies a central but hitherto neglected aspect of Rousseau's political thought: the concept of social order and its implications for the ideal society which he envisages.

On these subjects Machiavelli wrote no books: the text of his philosophy is his life itself, a life that was filled with paradox, uncertainty, and tragic drama.

This launch volume in the Founders of Modern Political and Social Thought series presents a critical examination of Machiavelli's thought, combining an accessible, historically-informed account of his work with a re-assessment of his ...

Overturning popular misconceptions and challenging scholarly consensus, Maurizio Viroli also provides a fresh introduction to the work.

Recognizing the difference between great and mediocre political leaders is difficult but not at all impossible—with Machiavelli's help. So do your country a favor. Read this book, then vote like Machiavelli would.

But in this book, Maurizio Viroli, a leading historian of republican political thought, challenges this conventional wisdom.

The translation of this work has been funded by SEPS—Segretariato Europeo per le Pubblicazioni Scientifiche.

This book is an exciting example of political philosophy in action, with a breadth of reference (Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Kant, Rousseau, Pettit and Skinner), and a lightness of touch which is uncommon to works in this field.

In Niccolò's Smile, Maurizio Viroli brings to life the fascinating writer who was the founder of modern political thought, a charming figure who was both famous and powerless, loved and reviled.

This study fills a notable gap in the history of political thought.