As all those have shown who have discussed civil institutions, and as every history is full of examples, it is necessary to whoever arranges to found a Republic and establish laws in it, to presuppose that all men are bad and that they will use their malignity of mind every time they have the opportunity; and if such malignity is hidden for a time, it proceeds from the unknown reason that would not be known because the experience of the contrary had not been seen, but time, which is said to be the father of every truth, will cause it to be discovered.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lawmakers should assume people are prone to misconduct if given the chance, and design laws accordingly.
- In plain terms
- Assume people will act badly if they can; build laws to prevent that.
- What can you take from it?
- Design systems assuming worst-case human behavior.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are your checks built on trust or suspicion?
- What if people are good?
Another view
Assuming bad faith can create a self-fulfilling prophecy of mistrust.
More from Niccolo Machiavelli
God is not willing to do everything, and thus take away our free will and that share of glory which belongs to us.
Permalink to quote #25 Men never do good unless necessity drives them to it; but when they are free to choose and can do just as they please, confusion and disorder become rampant.
Permalink to quote #27 Where the willingness is great, the difficulties cannot be great.
Permalink to quote #24
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