Niccolo Machiavelli Quotes

I hold it to be of great prudence for men to abstain from threats and insulting words towards any one, for neither the one nor the other in any way diminishes the strength of the enemy; but the one makes him more cautious, and the other increases his hatred of you, and makes him more persevering in his efforts to injure you

Be prudent in your use of military force to achieve any laudable objective.

I consider it a mark of great prudence in a man to abstain from threats or any contemptuous expressions, for neither of these weaken the enemy, but threats make him more cautious, and the other excites his hatred, and a desire to revenge himself.

I did not deal well with the politicians. I tend to tell people that when they are full of crap, that they are full of crap.

There were times that I needed to go to battle, but how I went to battle wasn't always the best way in.

It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from quarrel; but every fool will quarrel

As in other times, we are in a war we did not start but have no choice but to win.

I have a temperament that doesn't adapt well to politics. It's because I speak my mind so much.

To take offence is a great folly, and to give offence is a great folly - I know not which is the greater.

Never offend an enemy in a small way.

War's a game, which, were their subjects wise, Kings would not play at.

Prudent is he who can keep silent that part of truth which may be untimely, and by not speaking it, does not spoil the truth of what he said.

Wise men are able to make a fitting use even of their enmities.

Remember that even in war there is a time for restraint. A time to hold back your sword.

Weapons are instruments of fear; they are not a wise man's tools. He uses them only when he has no choice.

A really good diplomat does not go in for victories, even when he wins them.

It is much safer to reconcile an enemy than to conquer him; victory may deprive him of his poison, but reconciliation of his will.

Every word and deed must contribute to an understanding with the enemy and release those vast reservoirs of goodwill which have been blocked by impenetrable walls of hate.

Knowing when to keep your mouth shut is invariably more important than opening it at the right time.

I want war. To me all means will be right. My motto is not "Don't, whatever you do, annoy the enemy." My motto is "Destroy him by all and any means." I am the one who will wage the war!

Peace is our goal but preparedness is the price we must pay.

There are more quarrels smothered by just shutting your mouth, and holding it shut, than by all the wisdom in the world.

Shun an angry man for a moment-your enemy forever.

I don't want unnecessary violence, sergeant," said Blouse. "Right you are, sir!" said the sergeant. "Carborundum! First man comes through that door runnin', I want him nailed to the wall!" He caught the lieutenant's eye, and added: "But not too hard!

Love your enemy. It will not only puzzle him, But finally illumine him.