Interest Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“(A ruler) cannot and should not keep his word when to do so would go against his interests or when the reason he pledged it no longer holds.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Prince, 1532
A ruler may break promises when they conflict with his self‑interest or when the original justification disappears.
In simple terms: Leaders can break promises if it benefits them.
Key Takeaway
Consider the cost of breaking trust.
Themes
politics
ethics
leadership
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government negotiations
- business deals
- diplomatic treaties
Key Concepts
realpolitik
trust
self‑interest
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to renege on a commitment?
- How does self‑interest affect moral duty?
A Different Perspective
Breaking promises erodes credibility and long‑term cooperation.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
