How to Choose a Leader: Machiavelli’s Advice to Citizens

Placeholder author icon
By Maurizio Viroli

Published May 20, 2016

Maurizio Viroli, an acclaimed Machiavelli biographer, interprets Niccolò Machiavelli’s writings to see what can be learned about choosing a leader. Viroli is professor emeritus of politics at Princeton University and a current professor at the University of Texas, Austin and the University of Italian Switzerland in Lugano. His previous works include Niccolò’s Smile and Redeeming 'The Prince.'

Paw in print

Image
The February 2026 cover of PAW, featuring a photo of Joseph Nye.
The Latest Issue

February 2026

Lives Lived & Lost in 2025, Saying ’yes’ to more housing; AI startup stars