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[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.” quote by Jacques Barzun
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““[The prince] dare not let ethics keep him from doing whatever evil must be done to preserve himself and the state.””

Jacques Barzun

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.

Key Takeaway

Weigh moral costs against political necessity.

Themes

politics ethics statecraft

Mood

critical serious

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • war decisions
  • policy making
  • diplomacy
  • leadership crises

Key Concepts

realpolitik philosophy power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is immoral action justified?
  • How to maintain integrity in governance?
A Different Perspective

Moral compromise can erode legitimacy.

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