Niccolo Machiavelli

The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Whoever desires constant success must change his conduct with the times.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Better to act and repent than not to act.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Make no small plans for they have no power to stir the soul.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A battle that you win cancels any other bad action of yours. In the same way, by losing one, all the good things worked by you before become vain.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A prudent man will always try to follow in the footsteps of great men and imitate those who have been truly outstanding, so that, if he is not quite as skillful as they, at least some of their ability may rub off on him.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A sign of intelligence is an awareness of one’s own ignorance.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A wise ruler should rely on what is under his own control, not on what is under the control of others.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Any man who tries to be good all the time is bound to come to ruin among the great number who are not good.

Niccolo Machiavelli

He who wishes to be obeyed must know how to command.

Niccolo Machiavelli