Machiavelli's writings and philosophical views on politics were such that his surname has since become a common reference that refers to any political move that is devious or cunning in nature as, "Machiavellian."

Is Karl Rove, the college deferred (but not graduate) draft-dodger the next Machiavelli of our time? The term, "Rovian" is being floated quite frequently these days, even when it doesn't directly associate to his actions, rather, actions that are indicative of something Rove would do.