Lao-Tzu and Machiavelli on Government

Lao-Tzu and Machiavelli have radically opposing views on government and government leaders. Lao-Tzu's view of the ideal government is one that is very simple, does not wage war, and does not interfere in people's lives (Hooker). It would not "wallow in luxury and wealth," and it would preferably be inactive primarily guiding rather than governing (Hooker). Machiavelli's view of government, on the other hand, is that it is best governed by a very controlling and powerful leader who is not averse to "ruthlessness, deception, and cruelty" (Kemerling). Within these diametrically opposed views of government lie vastly different perspectives on the ultimate purpose of government, t