Princes always are always happy to see developing among…
““Princes always are always happy to see developing among their subjects the taste for agreeable arts and for superfluities which do not result in the export of money. For quite apart from the fact that with these they nourish that spiritual pettiness so appropriate for servitude, they know very well that all the needs which people give themselves are so many chains binding them. When Alexander wished to keep the Ichthyophagi dependent on him, he forced them to abandon fishing and to nourish themselves on foods common to other people. And no one has been able to subjugate the savages in America, who go around quite naked and live only from what their hunting provides. In fact, what yoke could be imposed on men who have no need of anything?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rulers favor luxury and arts that keep subjects dependent, preventing true freedom and self‑sufficiency.
In simple terms: Leaders keep people tied to material comforts to control them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and reduce reliance on unnecessary luxuries.
Themes
power
control
materialism
freedom
dependency
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- colonial rule
- modern consumerism
- personal budgeting
- community self‑reliance
Key Concepts
political philosophy
social critique
economic dependence
Questions to Reflect On
- What comforts do you accept that limit your freedom?
- How can you balance enjoyment with independence?
A Different Perspective
Luxury can also inspire creativity and economic growth.