virtù

The term virtù, as used by Niccolò Machiavelli in his political philosophy, differs significantly from the traditional understanding of virtue. Instead of moral goodness, Machiavelli's virtù refers to a ruler's ability to achieve political goals and maintain power, often through cunning, force, and a willingness to act immorally when necessary.12

Machiavelli, in his famous work The Prince, advises rulers to prioritize the "effectual truth" of situations over abstract ideals of what "should be done". This means a prince must be prepared to act without goodness if the circumstances demand it to preserve the state. Virtù involves mastering the art of war, seeking glory, and understanding that actions, even those considered cruel or stingy, are permissible if they serve the necessity of maintaining power and control over fortune. This pragmatic, often amoral, approach to politics led to the term "Machiavellian" becoming synonymous with political deceit and self-interest.1234