12/12/2025
Machiavelli’s political cycle .
1. Monarchy Degenerates into Tyranny
A monarchy begins when a single ruler governs wisely, ensuring the stability and prosperity of the state. Over time, however, the ruler may prioritize personal gain over the common good. When this happens, the monarchy degenerates into tyranny, a form of government characterized by oppression, fear, and the abuse of power.
2. Tyranny Leads to Aristocracy
Oppression under a tyrant eventually provokes rebellion among the people. After the tyrant is overthrown, power often passes to a small group of elite citizens who claim to govern in the interest of the state. This transition creates an aristocracy, where the state is ruled by a few distinguished individuals.
3. Aristocracy Becomes Oligarchy
Over time, the aristocrats may become self-serving and corrupt, ignoring the needs of the general population. When this happens, aristocracy degenerates into oligarchy, a system where the wealthy few dominate political and economic power, often exploiting the masses.
4. Oligarchy Gives Way to Democracy
Frustrated with oligarchic rule, the common people may rise up to reclaim power, establishing a democracy or popular republic. In this system, the majority has the authority to influence government decisions, ideally creating a fairer society based on popular participation.
5. Democracy Can Descend into Chaos
Machiavelli warned that democracy is not always stable. If citizens are undisciplined or divided, a democracy may degenerate into mob rule or chaos. In this stage, laws and institutions are weak, and constant power struggles disrupt social order.
6. Mob Rule Paves the Way for Monarchy
Amid the disorder of mob rule, a strong leader usually emerges to restore order. This leader may establish a new monarchy, either benevolent or tyrannical, restarting the cycle. Machiavelli emphasized that without strong institutions and civic virtue, political systems are prone to repeat this cycle endlessly.
