He [the prince] holds to what is right when he can but…
![“He [the prince] holds to what is right when he can but knows how to do wrong when he must.” quote by Niccolò Machiavelli](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/07c/niccolo-machiavelli-368_holds_he-the-prince-holds-to-what-is-right-whe_2936948.jpg)
““He [the prince] holds to what is right when he can but knows how to do wrong when he must.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A ruler may act morally when possible, but must be willing to do wrong when necessary
In simple terms: Rulers may need to act unethically for survival
Key Takeaway
Balance ethical ideals with pragmatic decisions
Themes
politics
ethics
leadership
realism
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- government negotiations
- corporate strategy
- crisis management
Key Concepts
Machiavellianism
moral flexibility
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to compromise ethics?
- What are the long‑term costs of such choices?
A Different Perspective
Moral compromise can erode trust and legitimacy