1
a prince should entrust his friends with so much authority only as leaves a certain interval between his position and theirs
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9 quotes by Niccolo Machiavelli · clear filters
2
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.
3
The prince, therefore, who would guard himself against plots, ought more to fear those men to whom he has been too indulgent, than those to whom he has done great wrongs.
4
Moreover men commonly deceive themselves in respect of the love which they imagine others bear them, nor can ever be sure of it until they have put it to the proof.
5
Therefore it must be inferred that good counsels, whencesoever they come, are born of the wisdom of the prince, and not the wisdom of the prince from good counsels.
6
Nevertheless, he who has relied least on fortune is established the strongest.
7
A wise man ought always to follow the paths beaten by great men, and to imitate those who have been supreme, so that if his ability does not equal theirs, at least it will savour of it.
8
Therefore, if he who rules a principality cannot recognize evils until they are upon him, he is not truly wise; and this insight is given to few.
9
princes ought to leave affairs of reproach to the management of others, and keep those of grace in their own hands