The arbitrary rule of a just and enlightened prince is always bad. His virtues are the most dangerous and the surest form of seduction: they lull a people imperceptibly into the habit of loving, respecting, and serving his successor, whoever that successor may be, no matter how wicked or stupid.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A good ruler can be dangerous because their virtue trains people to obey any future ruler.
- In plain terms
- A good prince is dangerous because he teaches people to follow anyone after him.
- What can you take from it?
- Virtuous leaders can create habits of obedience that outlive them.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is obedience ever good?
- How do leaders influence future rules?
Another view
It assumes obedience is always bad, ignoring stability benefits.
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