Crushed Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“Men ought either to be well treated or crushed, because they can avenge themselves of lighter injuries, of more serious ones they cannot; therefore the injury that is to be done to a man ought to be of such a kind that one does not stand in fear of revenge.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Prince, 1532
Treat men gently or harshly, but ensure they fear no revenge; choose punishments that prevent retaliation.
In simple terms: Balance kindness and severity to avoid vengeance.
Key Takeaway
Apply measured discipline to maintain order.
Themes
power
justice
revenge
governance
Mood
analytical
strategic
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal judgments
- conflict resolution
- authority decisions
- policy making
Key Concepts
political theory
ethical leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure fairness without inciting revenge?
- When is leniency appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Harshness can breed resentment.
