Minister Quote by Niccolò Machiavelli
““When you see a Minister thinking more of himself than of you, and in all his actions seeking his own ends, that man can never be a good Minister or one that you can trust. For he who has the charge of the State committed to him, ought not to think of himself, but only of his Prince, and should never bring to the notice of the latter what does not directly concern him.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Prince, Niccolò Machiavelli, 1532
A minister who prioritizes personal ambition over the ruler’s interests cannot be trusted; loyalty to the sovereign must outweigh self‑interest.
In simple terms: Self‑interest undermines public duty.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize duty to the leader over personal gain.
Themes
politics
leadership
ethics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- government service
- political advisory
- public administration
Key Concepts
loyalty
power dynamics
trust
Questions to Reflect On
- Can personal ambition ever serve the common good?
- What safeguards ensure ministers act loyally?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can sometimes benefit the state if aligned with leader’s goals.
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