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A review by quitejessi
The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
4.0
It's hard to review this one. On one hand, Machiavelli's philosophy has been incredibly influential in the western world. On the other hand, I disagree with almost all of his thoughts. The Prince is a self-focused guide to gaining and keeping power. I believe Machiavelli would fit in well with the current cultural climate. Worth a read for educational purposes, but not as a self-help book.
“A wise man ought always to follow the paths beaten by great men, and to imitate those who have been supreme, so that if his ability does not equal theirs, at least it will savour of it” (Ch. 6). I wonder which historical figures Machiavelli would use if he wrote The Prince in 2021.
"A prudent Prince neither can nor ought to keep his word when to keep it is hurtful to him and the causes which led him to pledge it are removed. If all men were good, this would not be good advice, but since they are dishonest and do not keep faith with you, you in return, need not keep faith with them."
“A wise man ought always to follow the paths beaten by great men, and to imitate those who have been supreme, so that if his ability does not equal theirs, at least it will savour of it” (Ch. 6). I wonder which historical figures Machiavelli would use if he wrote The Prince in 2021.
"A prudent Prince neither can nor ought to keep his word when to keep it is hurtful to him and the causes which led him to pledge it are removed. If all men were good, this would not be good advice, but since they are dishonest and do not keep faith with you, you in return, need not keep faith with them."