For the great majority of mankind are satisfied with appearances, as though they were realities, and are often more influenced by the things that seem than by those that are.

Men rise from one ambition to another: first, they seek to secure themselves against attack, and then they attack others.

Power is the pivot on which everything hinges. He who has the power is always right; the weaker is always wrong.

And the prince who has relied solely on their words, without making other preparations, is ruined, for the friendship which is gained by purchase and not through grandeur and nobility of spirit is merited but is not secured, and at times is not to be had.

Nature that framed us of four elements, warring within our breasts for regiment, doth teach us all to have aspiring minds.

And truly it is a very natural and ordinary thing to desire to acquire, and always, when men do it who can, they will be praised or not blamed; but when they cannot, and wish to do it anyway, here lies the error and the blame.

How perilous it is to free a people who prefer slavery.