Publication Date
2024
DOI
10.26736/ar.01.01.02
Abstract
This undergraduate thesis is a culmination of a senior seminar course focused on the works of Florentine politician and statesman Niccol. Machiavelli. Infamous for his common caricature as an amoral shoulder devil for authoritarians, Machiavelli’s works have been interpreted in countless fashions. While The Prince and the Discourses, his two most significant writings, mainly focus on domestic politics, they give some attention to international affairs. This thesis serves to identify Machiavelli’s foreign policy philosophy within these works and reconcile the differences between their varied interpretations. Then, it will turn toward a modern-day prince, President Barack Obama, to determine his level of foreign policy Machiavellianism. I define Machiavelli’s foreign policy to be defined by an even combination of “the fox” and “the lion,” two beasts that embody the cunning, intelligence, strength, and courage necessary for political success. President Obama’s administration was able to adequately employ force internationally, but I find his use of “the fox” to be lacking. Thus, Machiavelli would recognize some successes of President Obama’s foreign policy but would ultimately withhold his designation as a truly prudent prince and diplomat.
Recommended Citation
Chancey, Eli
(2024)
"The Lion, the Fox, And the President: Machiavelli's foreign policy and Barack Obama,"
Araneum: Richmond Journal of American & Global Affairs: Vol. 1:
Iss.
1, Article 4.
DOI: 10.26736/ar.01.01.02
Available at:
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/araneum/vol1/iss1/4