The founder of modern political philosophy is often regarded as Niccolò Machiavelli. His seminal work, "The Prince," published in the early 16th century, explores the nature of political power and the complexities of governance. Machiavelli's pragmatic approach to politics emphasizes the importance of realism over idealism, asserting that the ends often justify the means. This perspective has sparked extensive debate regarding morality in politics, shaping the discourse around leadership, authority, and statecraft. His ideas remain influential, impacting political theory and practice throughout history, and continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of ethics in governance.