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Two professors at the University of Arkansas at Monticello have set out to challenge and reimagine conventional perceptions of a renowned political theorist. Dr. Eric Prichard, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Carol Strong, professor of political science, have co-edited and contributed to a new book, “Machiavellianism: Political Strategies, Psychological Dimensions and Societal Influence,” published by Nova Science Publishers.

Written for students and educators, the book offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary examination of Niccolò Machiavelli’s lasting impact, exploring his political strategies, the psychological traits linked to his name and his influence on modern institutions. Bridging theory and practice, the book analyzes Machiavelli’s relevance in contemporary governance, group dynamics and societal structures.

“Our book aims to move beyond the oversimplified view of Machiavelli as a proponent of ruthless leadership,” Dr. Strong said. “By bringing together perspectives from political science, psychology and other social sciences, we invite readers to understand Machiavelli’s complex theories and how they can provide nuanced insights into leadership, power and societal dynamics.”

The book originated from an invitation for Dr. Prichard and Dr. Strong to contribute a chapter on the psychological dimensions of Machiavellianism. That initial chapter evolved into a broader, interdisciplinary volume to challenge the reduction of a complex political thinker to a single, simplistic concept.

“Machiavellianism has been reduced to a simplistic psychological trait, a seven-item questionnaire that flattens the complex writings of a nuanced political theorist into something purely negative,” Dr. Prichard said. “We can’t simply reduce the entire corpus, work, thought or concept of a historical figure to a short questionnaire and then think that we’ve mastered the subject. Our goal was to restore depth to his thinking, to explore the contradictions and richness of his work and to provide a more integrated understanding of who Machiavelli truly was.”

Structured in three parts — political strategies, psychological dimensions and societal influences — the book features contributions from six scholars across political science, psychology and related disciplines, contributing to a more comprehensive view of Machiavelli’s theories.

Among the contributors was UAM criminal justice faculty member Dr. Adam McKee, who passed away shortly after the book’s publication. His chapter on Machiavellianism in policing highlights his ability to translate theory into practice and stands as a tribute to his intellectual contribution and the interdisciplinary spirit of the project.

“Dr. McKee was one of the most creative thinkers I knew here,” Dr. Prichard said. “I always appreciated how he was very widely read. When it came time to consider someone who could author a chapter in the societal dimensions section, I knew that he would have some interesting insights, and he did.”

Dr. Strong added, “Dr. McKee knew how to put theory into practice. He was a deep theoretical thinker, and his students greatly benefited from his insights during his time at UAM. He believed that philosophy isn't about giving answers but about seeing the world through different perspectives. That spirit guided the way he approached his classes and his chapter on the societal dimensions of policing.”

“Machiavellianism: Political Strategies, Psychological Dimensions and Societal Influence” is available for purchase on the Nova Science Publishers website.

For more information, contact Dr. Eric Prichard at prichard@uamont.edu or 870-460-1787 or Dr. Carol Strong at strong@uamont.edu or 870-460-1687.