Lao Tzu was a scholar in the Zhou Dynasty. In the 6th century BC, he wrote the Tao-te Ching as he was inspired by a world woven in the Tao. Machiavelli had a successful career as a statesman in Florence. In 1513, he was accused of plotting against the Medici family; he was imprisoned, tortured and then sent out into exile just outside the city. It seems he had written The Prince in order to demonstrate his ability as advisor to new princes as a ploy to enter the political scene. Lao Tzu and Machiavelli, being both philosophical legends in their own eras share with the world their own views of how a country is to be run. One based in the Tao and the other in political cruelty sharply contrast one another in the ultimate purpose and work of the state, the obligations of the leader to the people being led, and the characteristics of the leader. Lao Tzu’s and Machiavelli’s relationship of the leader to the people is rooted in separate foundation beliefs of the inner character of humans. Machiavelli has a low view of human nature based on his own observation that people behave in predictably bad ways; they are fickle, lie, and are greedy. Lao Tzu has a high view of human nature based on his belief in the Tao that reveals the good and trustworthiness of all people. The leader of Lao Tzu’s Tao-te Ching is referred to as the Master. The Master is to serve his people by being an example. In leading their country they actually are to follow their people. The relationship between the Master and the people should show simplicity, patience, and compassion. The Master must avoid trying to educate the people, instead keep it simple and clear being content with regular life which in return will lead people to their true nature of Tao. Lao Tzu has designed a sort of anarchy to take over, thus exposing everyone to be guided by his or her inner nature of good. The circumstances for Machiavelli’s prince requires him to use fear to achieve ef