1
Here we see how hurtful it is for a prince or commonwealth to keep the minds of their subjects in constant alarm and suspense by continually renewed punishments and violence.
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8 quotes by Niccolo Machiavelli · clear filters
2
there is no surer or more necessary restraint on the violence of an unruly multitude, than the presence of some one whose character and bearing command respect
3
Wherefore the nature of a multitude is no more to be blamed than the nature of princes, since both equally err when they can do so without regard to consequences.
4
this vice of ingratitude has its source either in avarice or in suspicion
5
injuries ought to be done all at one time, so that, being tasted less, they offend less; benefits ought to be given little by little, so that the flavour of them may last longer
6
princes ought to leave affairs of reproach to the management of others, and keep those of grace in their own hands
7
the nature of the people is variable, and whilst it is easy to persuade them, it is difficult to fix them in that persuasion
8
It may be answered that one should wish to be both, but, because it is difficult to unite them in one person, it is much safer to be feared than loved, when, of the two, either must be dispensed with.