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Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli

“God and nature have thrown all human fortunes into the midst of mankind; and they are thus attainable rather by rapine than by industry, by wicked actions rather than by good. Hence it is that men feed upon each other, and those who cannot defend themselves must be worried.”

Book:History of Florence and the Affairs of Italy

Work

History of Florence and the Affairs of Italy

This book delves into the political and cultural history of Florence, exploring its role in shaping Italy's affairs. It examines the city's development, its key figures, and its impact on the broader Italian landscape. more

Author

Niccolo Machiavelli

Niccolò Machiavelli was an Italian historian, political theorist, and philosopher who lived during the Renaissance. He is best known for his book 'The Prince,' which delves into the concepts of power, political tactics, and the art of rule. more

“As all those have shown who have discussed civil institutions, and as every history is full of examples, it is necessary to whoever arranges to found a Republic and establish laws in it, to presuppose that all men are bad and that they will use their malignity of mind every time they have the opportunity.”

Men Mind Art War Use Law Found Opportunity Example Institutions Republic Art Of War

Author:Niccolo Machiavelli

“And if such malignity is hidden for a time, it proceeds from the unknown reason that would not be known because the experience of the contrary had not been seen, but time, which is said to be the father of every truth, will cause it to be discovered.”

Ifs Art Said War Reason Father Causes Known Contrary Art Of War

Author:Niccolo Machiavelli

“So in all human affairs one notices, if one examines them closely, that it is impossible to remove one inconvenience without another emerging.”

Ifs Humans Art War Impossible Affair Remove Art Of War Emerging Inconvenience

Author:Niccolo Machiavelli

“I am firmly convinced, therefore, that to set up a republic which is to last a long time, the way to set about it is to constitute it as Sparta and Venice were constituted; to place it in a strong position, and so to fortify it that no one will dream of taking it by a sudden assault; and, on the other hand, not to make it so large as to appear formidable to its neighbors. It should in this way be able to enjoy its form of government for a long time. For war is made on a commonwealth for two reasons: to subjugate it, and for fear of being subjugated by it.”