Part 2/8:
At the core of Machiavelli’s argument is the belief that the strength of a ruler's legitimacy rests on two primary institutions: sound laws and sound military forces. Machiavelli claims that military forces hold even greater significance than laws, as the latter require protection. A state without a capable military is vulnerable and at risk of losing its sovereignty. In times of conflict, where protection and enforcement of laws are essential, a ruler reliant on a weak military is doomed to fail.