Machiavelli is often considered the founder of modern political thought, because he a. drew upon the Roman tradition of cynicism as a basis for his political theory. b. rejected God and Christianity and sought to ban them from a secular society. c. tried to understand and explain statecraft independent of Christian morality. d. emphasized the equality of all citizens.

a. drew upon the Roman tradition of cynicism as a basis for his political theory.

Explanation:

Nicolo Machiavelli was an Italian philosopher and theorists. He studied how politics were run through reading of books and observing other leaders. He came to a conclusion that morality should be put aside in politics and a more subtle and crafty method should be embraced. He believed it was better to have rulers who are feared by the people than those who don't and only obey due to obligation. This was common in the Roman Empire and Machiavelli drew this tradition of cynicism from the Roman leaders and was a basis for his political theory.

d. emphasized the equality of all citizens

Explanation:

Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli born on 3rd May 1469 was an Italian, a diplomat and philosopher. He was considered to be the founder of modern political thought. During his time the pope was the ruler aking all the laws, everyone obeyed the pope and his laws. Machiavelli was of the opinion that since laws were made by men, they had merits and disadvantages and therefore provision should be made for its amendment so as to meets the needs of the people. He believed that everyone was equal and should be treated equally