Causes Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“As the observance of divine institutions is the cause of the greatness of republics, so the disregard of them produces their ruin; for where the fear of God is wanting, there the country will come to ruin, unless it be sustained the fear of the prince, which temporarily supply the want of religion.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Prince, Niccolò Machiavelli, 1532
Political stability depends on reverence for higher authority; neglecting it leads to decay, unless a ruler imposes fear to substitute.
In simple terms: Respect for authority sustains societies; lack of it causes ruin.
Key Takeaway
Maintain respect for institutions or strong leadership.
Themes
politics
authority
societal stability
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- religious practice
- leadership challenges
Key Concepts
social contract
religion
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Should fear replace genuine reverence?
- Can authority sustain without moral grounding?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting moral foundations can cause unrest despite imposed fear.
![“Well the first time I performed, my mom was like how she is now when sees me on stage – all red, smiling from ear to ear. So I don’t want to mess up, [be]cause she’s smiling. Seeing my mom happy is kind of like an overwhelming feeling.” quote by Chris Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/477/chris-brown-1887_causes_well-the-first-time-i-performed-my-mom-w_4699.jpg)