Men ought either to be well treated, or crushed.

One arises from a low to a high station more often by using fraud instead of force.

For he who innovates will have for his enemies all those who are well off under the existing order of things, and only lukewarm supporters in those who might be better off under the new.

Benefits should be granted little by little, so that they may be better enjoyed.

Princes and governments are far more dangerous than other elements within society.

....nothing is so unhealthy or unstable as the reputation for power that is not based on one's own power.

A prince need trouble little about conspiracies when the people are well disposed, but when they are hostile and hold him in hatred, then he must fear everything and everybody.