Niccolò Machiavelli Quotes

161 Sourced Quotes

The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.
Variant translation: And the first opinion which one forms of a prince, and of his understanding, is by observing the men he has around him

Niccolò Machiavelli
There is no avoiding war; it can only be postponed to the advantage of others.
Variant translation: War is not to be avoided, but is only to be put off to the advantage of others

Niccolò Machiavelli
If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared.
Variant translation: Therefore the injury that is to be done to a man ought to be of such a kind that one does not stand in fear of revenge.

Niccolò Machiavelli