Aim Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“A prince ought to have no other aim or thought, nor select anything else for his study, than war and its rules and discipline; for this is the sole art that belongs to him who rules, and it is of such force that it not only upholds those who are born princes, but it often enables men to rise from a private station to that rank. And, on the contrary, it is seen that when princes have thought more of ease than of arms they have lost their states. And the first cause of your losing it is to neglect this art; and what enables you to acquire a state is to be master of the art.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Prince, 1532
Machiavelli argues that a ruler must prioritize military knowledge and discipline, as mastery of war secures and sustains political power.
In simple terms: Rulers need war skills to keep power.
Key Takeaway
Focus on military competence.
Themes
leadership
politics
military
power
ambition
Mood
strategic
serious
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- governing a state
- military training
- political strategy
- social mobility
Key Concepts
statecraft
realpolitik
social hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does military expertise affect legitimacy?
- Can peace be maintained without war knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting war can lead to loss of authority.
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