Niccolo Machiavelli

I consider it a mark of great prudence in a man to abstain from threats or any contemptuous expressions, for read more

I consider it a mark of great prudence in a man to abstain from threats or any contemptuous expressions, for neither of these weaken the enemy, but threats make him more cautious, and the other excites his hatred, and a desire to revenge himself

When neither their property nor their honor is touched, the majority of men live content.

When neither their property nor their honor is touched, the majority of men live content.

Your son at five is your master, at ten your slave, at fifteen your double, and after that, your friend read more

Your son at five is your master, at ten your slave, at fifteen your double, and after that, your friend or your foe, depending on his bringing up

A prudent man should always follow in the footsteps of great men and imitate those who have been outstanding. If read more

A prudent man should always follow in the footsteps of great men and imitate those who have been outstanding. If his own prowess fails to compare with theirs, at least it has an air of greatness about it.

Since love and fear can hardly coexist together, if we must choose between them, it is far safer to be read more

Since love and fear can hardly coexist together, if we must choose between them, it is far safer to be feared than loved.