The basic advice given by Niccolo Machiavelli on governing a society contradicts that of Lao-Tzu's in the way they differ in philosophies, yet the ends they seek to meet are similar. They each had unique philosophies on leadership. As I attempt in trying to find commonalities in these two philosophies, the only one that I can sense is that both give advice on how to lead a nation to maintain prosperity, safety, and peace. I also find truth in the book statement that reads: "Like Lao-Tzu, Machiavelli is brief and to the point."

Machiavelli was from Italy and Lao-Tzu from China. Their basic idea was to benefit the country and the people through good leadership, however their desired approaches in achieving this end contradict each other. Lao-Tzu's philosophy is based on traditional rituals, customs and rites of China. He is known as the author of the "Tao Te...