Plebeian Machiavellianism: The Idea of "Learning How not to be Good" for Ordinary Citizens

Most accepted political thought holds that good and morally upright actions such as justice and virtue are desirable in politics, since they guide both politics and daily life; Niccolò Machiavelli, however, put forward a completely opposite view of political conduct: "learn how not to be good." This point was demonstrated in full in the book The Prince, and his idea of "learn how not to be good" has usually been regarded as advice for rulers, leaders or political elites only. Based on Jeffrey Edward Green's idea of plebeian Machiavellianism, this paper argues that ordinary citizens will often meet ethical situations in which they must act "not morally" and "not politely." By examining Machiavelli's writings along with modern democratic theory, the article shows that the final control over powerful elites rests on the anger, suspicion and watchfulness of citizens. Such emotions and attitudes often contradict common moral values like civility and equality. Thus, "learning how not to be good" is a political skill which may help ordinary citizens in identifying power and resisting unfair control. The main purpose of the article is not to encourage cynicism; it is to show that moral discomfort is normal and that it is essential for a responsible citizen under an unequal and flawed democracy.