[The prince] dare not let ethics keep him from doing…
““[The prince] dare not let ethics keep him from doing whatever evil must be done to preserve himself and the state.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A prince must sometimes set aside ethics to commit necessary evils for self‑preservation and the stability of the state.
In simple terms: Ethics may be ignored for state survival.
Weigh moral costs against political necessity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- war decisions
- policy making
- diplomacy
- leadership crises
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is immoral action justified?
- How to maintain integrity in governance?
Moral compromise can erode legitimacy.