Machiavelli on Popular Support, Nobility, and Political Stability: Legitimacy, Statecraft, and the Exercise of Power Introduction Among the most influential propositions in the history of political thought is Niccolò Machiavelli’s assertion in that a prudent ruler must “esteem the nobles but not make himself hated by the populace.” This statement encapsulates one of the central … Continue reading Critically examine Machiavelli’s argument that political stability depends upon a ruler’s ability to maintain the support of the populace while effectively managing relations with the nobility, and analyse its implications for political legitimacy, statecraft, and the exercise of power.