Whoso taketh in hand to govern a multitude, either by way of liberty or principality, and cannot assure himself of those persons that are enemies to that enterprise, doth frame a state of short perseverance.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Leaders who fail to secure against enemies will have short-lived regimes.
- In plain terms
- Secure yourself against enemies to rule long.
- What can you take from it?
- Neutralize threats to maintain power.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who opposes your goals?
- How do you ensure stability?
Another view
Eliminating enemies can sometimes create more.
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