Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli, source date
There is nothing more difficult to plan, more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to manage than the creation of a new order of things..... Whenever his enemies have occasion to attack the innovator they do so with the passion of partisans, while the others defend him sluggishly so that the innovator and his party alike are vulnerable.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the challenges, uncertainties, and risks involved in introducing a new order or initiating innovation. It suggests that such endeavors are often met with strong opposition from adversaries who attack passionately, while supporters tend to defend the innovator with a lack of enthusiasm and vigor. Consequently, this lack of unity and weak defense makes both the innovator and their supporters susceptible to vulnerabilities. The quote serves as a reminder of the difficulty in managing and sustaining change, highlighting the potential obstacles that may arise in the face of progress.