It is necessary for him who lays out a state and arranges…
“It is necessary for him who lays out a state and arranges laws for it to presuppose that all men are evil and that they are always going to act according to the wickedness of their spirits whenever they have free scope.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Machiavelli argues that rulers must assume people are inherently selfish and will act out of self‑interest when given freedom.
In simple terms: Leaders should expect selfish behavior.
Key Takeaway
Plan institutions that curb self‑interest.
Themes
politics
human nature
leadership
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government design
- legal frameworks
- public policy
- corporate governance
Key Concepts
Machiavellianism
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How can laws encourage virtue?
- When is trust in citizens appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Assuming universal evil may ignore altruism and cooperation.