Art Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“Those who either from imprudence or want of sagacity avoid doing so, are always overwhelmed with servitude and poverty; for faithful servants are always servants, and honest men are always poor; nor do any ever escape from servitude but the bold and faithless, or from poverty, but the rapacious and fraudulent.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Prince, 1532
Argues that prudence and wisdom prevent servitude and poverty, while boldness and dishonesty lead to freedom from both.
In simple terms: Wisdom avoids oppression; boldness and deceit can break it.
Key Takeaway
Balance caution with bold action.
Themes
politics
ethics
economics
power
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- financial planning
- social reform
- personal risk‑taking
Key Concepts
prudence
servitude
poverty
boldness
fraud
Questions to Reflect On
- When is boldness justified?
- How does wisdom protect against exploitation?
A Different Perspective
Boldness without ethics can cause harm; prudence may limit opportunity.
