I say that every prince must desire to be considered merciful and not cruel. He must, however, take care not to misuse this mercifulness.

It should be borne in mind that there is nothing more difficult to arrange, more doubtful of success, and more dangerous to carry through than initiating changes. The innovator makes enemies of all those who prospered under the old order, and only lukewarm support is forthcoming from those who would prosper under the new. Their support is lukewarm ... partly because men are generally incredulous, never really trusting new things unless they have tested them by experience.

The wish to acquire more is admittedly a very natural and common thing; and when men succeed in this they are always praised rather than condemned. But when they lack the ability to do so and yet want to acquire more at all costs, they deserve condemnation for their mistakes.

Is it better to be loved or feared?

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

Men shrink less from offending one who inspires love than one who inspires fear.

The best fortress which a prince can possess is the affection of his people.