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Fear Quote by Niccolò Machiavelli

“Men are either to be kindly treated, or utterly crushed, since they can revenge lighter injuries, but not graver. Wherefore the injury we do to a man should be of a sort to leave no fear of reprisals.” quote by Niccolò Machiavelli
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““Men are either to be kindly treated, or utterly crushed, since they can revenge lighter injuries, but not graver. Wherefore the injury we do to a man should be of a sort to leave no fear of reprisals.””

Niccolò Machiavelli

About This Quote

Source Book: The Prince, 1532

Treating people kindly avoids retaliation; harshness invites vengeance, especially for minor harms.

In simple terms: Kindness prevents revenge.

Key Takeaway

Choose kindness over cruelty.

Themes

politics human nature justice

Mood

cautious strategic

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • legal judgments
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

Machiavellian strategy ethical behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it always possible to be kind without being exploited?
  • How does power affect moral choices?
A Different Perspective

Kindness may be seen as weakness in power struggles.

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