Machiavelli’s Conception of Secularism: Pragmatic Statecraft and the Foundations of Modern Political Theory Introduction Niccolò Machiavelli (1469–1527), often hailed as the father of modern political science, introduced a groundbreaking approach to politics in his major works, The Prince and Discourses on Livy. Central to his political philosophy was a secular understanding of power, governance, and … Continue reading Examine Machiavelli’s conception of secularism, focusing on his separation of politics from religion and his emphasis on pragmatic statecraft. Analyze how his approach marked a departure from medieval political thought and contributed to the emergence of modern secular political theory.