Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
It is necessary for him who lays out a state and arranges laws for it to presuppose that all men are evil and that they are always going to act according to the wickedness of their spirits whenever they have free scope.
Summary
This quote suggests that when establishing a state and its laws, it is crucial to assume that all individuals have the potential for evil and will act based on their inherently corrupt nature whenever given the opportunity. By starting with this premise, those in power can create systems and regulations that anticipate and address the darkest impulses of people, instead of relying on the assumption of innate goodness. This understanding allows for a more pragmatic approach to governance that accounts for human imperfection and seeks to prevent potential harm.
Topics
Men
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
