Destroyed Quote by Niccolò Machiavelli
““Men must either be caressed or else destroyed.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Prince, 1532
People need either gentle affection or decisive force to be guided.
In simple terms: People need love or strength.
Balance tenderness and authority.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- management
- parenting
- political leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is gentleness more effective?
- How do you decide between love and force?
Overemphasis on force can breed resentment.