A Comparative Concepts of Buddhist Political Philosophy and Niccolò Machiavelli’s Political Philosophy

Abstract

The objectives of this academic article, A Comparative Concepts of Buddhist Political Philosophy and Machiavelli’s Political Philosophy, aiming 1) to present the concepts of Buddhist political philosophy differ from the Machiavelli’s political philosophy; 2) to explore the source of these two concepts that can be applied in realpolitik; 3) to analyze the practices of two concepts, Buddhist political philosophy and Machiavelli’s that in line with the social context.
On the other hand, this academic paper explores the divergent approaches to political philosophy presented by Buddhism and Machiavelli. Buddhist political philosophy, rooted in principles of compassion, non-violence, and interconnectedness, advocates for ethical governance that prioritizes the well-being of all beings. 
It emphasizes mindfulness, wisdom, and moral leadership as essential for creating harmonious societies. In contrast, Machiavelli’s political philosophy, epitomized in "The Prince," emphasizes pragmatism, power dynamics, and the necessity of effective leadership in a competitive political landscape. Machiavelli’s writings often endorse strategies that prioritize stability and control, even if they involve morally ambiguous actions. This paper examines how these two philosophies address the fundamental questions of governance, ethics, and the role of leadership, offering contrasting 
perspectives on the nature and purpose of political authority. By analyzing their core principles and implications, this study seeks to illuminate the broader implications of these philosophies for contemporary political theory and practice.