Book 3, Part 3 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 7, "Of Mixed Governments"

This brief chapter defines the author's view on which form of government is best. He suggests that ultimately whatever is simplest, whatever fosters the best and most mutually rewarding relationship between the Sovereign and the Prince, is the best. He adds that "the establishment of intermediate Magistrates" prevent abuses of power on both sides, and keep government from becoming too relaxed, too self satisfied, and too self serving.

Chapter 8, "That Every Form of Government Would not be Proper in Every Country" The author develops the point first raised in Book 2 Chapter 10 - that geographical regions with different climatic, agricultural, economic and social strengths and needs fit, in different ways, into the balance between the different levels of government. He examines in great detail the relationship between soil productivity, population and government, making broad generalizations about...