Key elements of Machiavelli include: 
(A) Classification of political regimes 
(B) Critique of classical philosophical ideas 
(C) Criticism of Liberty 
(D) Ideas on Republicanism 
(E) Analysing power 
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: 

Correct option is B

Based on Machiavelli's works, the selected elements (A), (D), and (E) correspond well with his core ideas:
1. (A) Classification of political regimes: In his analysis of governance, Machiavelli classified regimes and discussed the strengths and weaknesses of various political structures, particularly comparing republics and principalities. His thoughts on these classifications are crucial to understanding his view of governance and stability.
2. (D) Ideas on Republicanism: Machiavelli, particularly in Discourses on Livy, emphasized the benefits of a republican form of government. He advocated for republicanism as a means to achieve civic virtue and collective liberty, which he saw as essential for a stable and prosperous society.
3. (E) Analyzing power: Machiavelli’s primary focus, especially in The Prince, was on the nature and strategies of political power. He analyzed how rulers can acquire, exercise, and retain power through strategic actions, often separated from traditional moral considerations.
Options (B) and (C) are not central elements in this context. While Machiavelli did critique certain philosophical ideals, his primary contribution was more practical, focused on the realities of power rather than theoretical opposition to classical philosophy. Similarly, Machiavelli did not specifically critique liberty; rather, he valued it within republican governance.
Thus, the correct answer is: (A), (D), and (E) only.
Information Booster
1. Classification of Political Regimes: Machiavelli analyzed and compared the effectiveness of monarchies, republics, and mixed governments, observing their effects on societal stability.
2. Republicanism: In Discourses on Livy, Machiavelli argued that a republic encourages civic responsibility and collective freedom, which he found preferable to the absolute rule of a prince.
3. Power Dynamics: The Prince is one of the most influential works on power politics, providing insights on achieving and maintaining political authority, often through unconventional or morally flexible means.