Machiavelli has given his theory of statecraft in his book The Prince which is known as the best book written on the subject of statecraft. Statecraft means the art of management of power. Machiavelli's book is influenced by the life of Caesar Borgia who is the hero of Machiavelli's book The Prince.
His book is addressed to Lorenzo II. "The Prince establishes the tradition of political realism.
According to Machiavelli, in order to make successful policies, it is Necessary that such policies should be based" Man is depicted as materialist He is concerned with improvement of his present life.
He was the first person to suggest a real understanding of human nature. One who is concerned with ought ‘What ought to be and neglects what is', 'what ought to be is bound to fail.
Machiavelli establishes a definite link between individual psychology and the nature of political institutions. Thus, Machiavelli should also be treated as Forerunner of the school of behaviourism that is the study of human behaviour.
The statecraft of Machiavelli is not for the well-being of rulers; rather it is for the welfare of people living in state.
Like Aristotle, Machiavelli also believed that the objective of ruler is not self-interest but interest of the governed.