Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aims to conduct a comparative analysis of Machiavellian principles and their application in Nigerian society. Machiavellianism, derived from the political philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli, is often associated with manipulation, deceit, and the pursuit of power. The principles outlined in Machiavelli's works, particularly "The Prince," have been studied extensively in the context of political science, leadership, and ethics. Nigerian society provides a rich and complex environment for exploring the application of Machiavellian principles. With a history of political instability, corruption, and power struggles, Nigeria offers a compelling case study for examining how Machiavellian tactics manifest in real-world scenarios. By analyzing historical and contemporary examples, this research project seeks to identify parallels between Machiavellian principles and the behavior of political leaders, business figures, and other influential individuals in Nigerian society. The research will involve a comprehensive review of relevant literature on Machiavellianism and its implications. Key concepts such as power dynamics, manipulation strategies, and the role of morality will be explored in the context of Nigerian cultural norms and societal structures. Additionally, case studies and empirical data will be used to illustrate the application of Machiavellian principles in specific Nigerian contexts. Through this comparative analysis, the research aims to shed light on the ways in which Machiavellian principles are adapted and enacted in Nigerian society. By examining the motivations, consequences, and ethical considerations associated with Machiavellian behavior, the project seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection between political philosophy and real-world practices in Nigeria. Overall, this research project offers a nuanced exploration of Machiavellianism in the Nigerian context, highlighting the complexities and contradictions inherent in the application of these principles. By critically examining the relationship between Machiavellian tactics and societal behavior in Nigeria, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the dynamics of power, influence, and morality in a complex and evolving society.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

Niccolo Machiavelli appears to have generated more controversy than any of his contemporaries. So much notoriety has gathered around his name that the charge of being a Machiavellian still remains a serious accusation in current political debate. Political thinkers from time immemorial had propounded one theory after another, all geared toward the betterment and upliftment of humanity. One salient feature of all these theories is that the propounders have the same objective mentally but their ideological and methodological approaches are what alienated one from the other.

In the case of Machiavelli, he posited a complex relationship between morality and politics, and associated the office of a ruler with the ability to know and act within the political world as it is and with the beastly abilities to dispense violence and practice deception. Besides, the hallmark of Machiavellianism lies in the fact that evil means can be used to achieve good end. Hence, when one has a good intention personal to him, what matters is not the process through which this goal is achieved but the emphasis lies on the fact of being able to attain the selfish interest. However, my concern is to x-ray philosophically the principle of Machiavelli and how its influences have held the contemporary Nigerian society to ransom.

PURPOSE OF STUDY

The high level of moral decadence that has permeated every facet of Nigerian society has instigated me toward embarking on this topic. The dangers of Machiavellianism constitute one of the most problematic threats to the moral basis of political life of every nation in general and Nigeria in particular.

My primary purpose is to x-ray how Machiavellian principle has penetrated our political and other dimensions of life right from the moment Nigeria got her independence to this present time. Thus, by x-raying this principle, I intend to place it side by side with Nigerian situation and how it has permeated the political, economic and the religious scenario of our country. In addition, I shall critically appraise Machiavellian principle and how reliable it has been in solving human precarious political predicament and whether his ideology has any hope for Nigerian society.

METHODOLOGY

The entire work is arranged into five chapters. It employs the following methods: expository, analytical, comparative, review, critical and evaluative methods. However, the method that appears to dominate the work is the critical method. Chapter one deals with the explanation and analysis of Machiavellianism, the political ideology and background to the political theory of Machiavelli. In chapter two, the views of some philosophers are discussed together with Machiavelli’s idea of morality. Chapter three exposes Nigerian situation and Machiavelli’s influence on her. Chapter four analyzes critically Machiavellianism and Nigerian government together with the effects of Machiavellianism in Nigeria. While chapter five, which is the last chapter, contains the evaluation and conclusion.