So far as he is able, a prince should stick to the path of…
“So far as he is able, a prince should stick to the path of good but, if the necessity arises, he should know how to follow evil.”
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 should generally follow good, but must be ready to act evil when necessary.
In simple terms: Good is default, evil is a strategic option.
Key Takeaway
Balance morality with pragmatic decisions.
Themes
political strategy
ethics
leadership
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
political philosophy
ethical dilemma
When to use this quote
- statecraft
- crisis management
- policy making
- military tactics
Key Concepts
realpolitik
moral flexibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to break moral rules?
- How do you reconcile good and evil actions?
A Different Perspective
Choosing evil can damage legitimacy.