Niccolo Machiavelli versus Lee Kuan Yew - a comparison of two political realisms

Abstract

The reflection on the concept of power and the vision of human nature described by Niccolò Machiavelli is an integral part of Western political culture. The question is, how has it been read in Asia and does it inspire actual political actors there as well? The purpose of this article is to analyze Singapore's political system, shaped by Lee Kuan Yew, using the tools of political realism derived from the Italian philosopher. The paper answers the questions: how does Singapore's first Prime Minister and founding father of the state - Lee Kuan Yew fit into the figure of the Prince? Does he realize the virtues of a ruler? Machiavelli understood the virtue of the ruler as a force capable of subduing fate. He held the conviction that a person can significantly shape his fate, and that fortune usually favors people who are bold and courageous, while cultivating civic virtues. The question is, how did Lee subdue his own fate and that of the entire state of Singapore?  The premise of this analysis is that there is a relationship between Machiavelli's philosophy and Lee Kuan Yew's theoretical beliefs and practical actions. It is also assumed that the use of the concepts contained in "The Prince" will allow for a better understanding of the political system and the model of governance of society in modern Singapore in Lee Kuan Yew's vision. As a result, I try to defend the thesis that Machiavelli himself would have seen in the leader of the Lion’s City his Prince.