Who is recognized as the 'father of modern political philosophy'?

Nicolas Machiavelli is often recognized as the 'father of modern political philosophy' primarily due to his influential work, "The Prince," which marked a clear departure from previous political thought. In this work, Machiavelli analyzed political power and the strategies necessary for maintaining authority and control in a principality. Unlike earlier thinkers who focused on ideals of governance based on moral or ethical considerations, Machiavelli's approach was pragmatic, emphasizing realism and the often harsh realities of political life.

His break from the traditional views that intertwined politics with ethics laid the groundwork for modern political analysis. By focusing on the effectiveness of actions rather than their moral implications, Machiavelli established a new framework for understanding power dynamics, statecraft, and republicanism. This shift has made his ideas particularly relevant to contemporary political discourse, where the effectiveness of governance is frequently assessed on pragmatic rather than purely ideological grounds. His contributions to realpolitik and the idea that the ends may justify the means resonate through modern political strategies, making his work foundational in political philosophy.