One man should not be afraid of improving his posessions, lest they be taken away from him, or another deterred by high taxes from starting a new business. Rather, the Prince should be ready to reward men who want to do these things and those who endeavour in any way to increase the prosperity of their city or their state.
Niccolo MachiavelliThe innovator has for enemies all who have done well under the old, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new.
Niccolo MachiavelliMen are so stupid and concerned with their present needs, they will always let themselves be deceived.
Niccolo MachiavelliIf you only notice human proceedings, you may observe that all who attain great power and riches, make use of either force or fraud; and what they have acquired either by deceit or violence, in order to conceal the disgraceful methods of attainment, they endeavor to sanctify with the false title of honest gains.
Niccolo Machiavelli