Machiavelli and the beginning of nationalism
The idea of "motherland" as of the highest value, which deserves the sacrifice of certain individuals is still alive, and many politicians base their policy on it. However the world of hostile nations bristling up against their neighbours, becomes a thing of the past. Machiavelli could not foresee this. His patriotism and atheism which have not been balanced by the more deep concept of man lead him to the apology of horrible political means. The twentieth century taught us where these means can lead the humankind.