1. Machiavelli and Pico Readings
Answer the following on a separate sheet of paper prior to our discussion.
Why does Pico argue that “man” is the most “marvelous” thing?
What evidence does he give for his point of view?
What, according to Pico, makes “man” different from everything other form of life in the universe?
According to Machiavelli, should the Prince worry about being known as a miser? What reasoning does he give?
Does Machiavelli think it is better for a Prince to be loved or feared?
Why must the Prince be both a fox and lion, according to Machiavelli?
What connections do you see between these two readings and the modern world? Are these ideas still relevant today? Why/why not?

2. Pico “On the Dignity of Man” and Machiavelli’s “The Prince” Seminar
Why does Pico think “man” is so dignified? What evidence does he provide? Do you agree?
What do you think the proper place of “man” is in the universe?
Were people better off in the past than they are now? Explain your thinking.
Based on what you read, what do you think Machiavelli’s view of human nature is and do you agree with it? (Explain)
Why is it that Machiavelli thinks the Prince should not worry about being seen as “a miser”? Do you agree?
Is it better to be loved or feared as a ruler? Why must the Prince be both a lion and fox?
Why do Princes fail in Machiavelli’s opinion? Also, what do you think it means “to fail” as a Prince?
How much does Machiavelli’s advice matter in a democratic society like the US?