Political philosophy Quote by Niccolò Machiavelli

Men generally decide upon a middle course, which is most hazardous, for they know neither how to be entirely good nor entirely bad.

— Niccolo Machiavelli

Because there are three classes of intellects: one which comprehends by itself; another which appreciates what others comprehend; and a third which neither comprehends…

— Niccolo Machiavelli

It is the duty of a man of honor to teach others the good which he has not been able to do himself because…

— Niccolo Machiavelli

“Anyone who believes that new benefits make men of high station forget old injuries deceives himself.”

— Niccolò Machiavelli

He who has once begun to live by rapine always finds reasons for taking what is not his.

— Niccolo Machiavelli

Everyone who wants to know what will happen ought to examine what has happened: everything in this world in any epoch has their replicas…

— Niccolo Machiavelli

Speaking generally, men are ungrateful, fickle, hypocritical, fearful odanger and covetous ogain.

— Niccolo Machiavelli

There is nothing as likely to succeed as what the enemy believes you cannot attempt.

— Niccolo Machiavelli

For the great majority of mankind are satisfied with appearance, as though they were realities and are often more influenced by the things that…

— Niccolo Machiavelli

That prince is highly esteemed who conveys this impression of himself, and he who is highly esteemed is not easily conspired against; for, provided…

— Niccolo Machiavelli

“Anyone who studies present and ancient affairs will easily see how in all cities and all peoples there still exist, and have always existed,…

— Niccolò Machiavelli

I believe that it is possible for one to praise, without concern, any man after he is dead since every reason and supervision for…

— Niccolo Machiavelli