Able Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“The reason is that nature has so created men that they are able to desire everything but are not able to attain everything: so that the desire being always greater than the acquisition, there results discontent with the possession and little satisfaction to themselves from it. From this arises the changes in their fortunes; for as men desire, some to have more, some in fear of losing their acquisition, there ensues enmity and war, from which results the ruin of that province and the elevation of another.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Prince, Niccolò Machiavelli, 1532
Human desire always exceeds what can be obtained, leading to perpetual dissatisfaction and conflict that reshapes societies.
In simple terms: Desire outpaces acquisition, causing unrest and war.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of desire to reduce conflict.
Themes
desire
conflict
politics
human nature
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- personal ambition
- political leadership
- resource allocation
- social policy
Key Concepts
Machiavellianism
psychology
economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies channel excess desire into constructive outcomes?
- What mechanisms reduce envy and war?
A Different Perspective
Desire may also drive innovation and progress, not just discord.
