The Prince

by Niccolò Machiavelli, Niccolo Machiavelli
The Prince cover
Good Books rating 4.06
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  • ID: 259
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2025-11-01
  • ISBN: 9780937832387
  • Publisher: Branden Books
  • Published: 2002-07-16
  • Formats: 274
  • Reviews: 4

Written in the early 16th century by Niccolò Machiavelli, "The Prince" is a seminal political treatise offering pragmatic advice to rulers on how to acquire and hold power. It breaks from traditional moralistic views by advocating that sometimes immoral actions are necessary for political success, illustrated through historical examples and the infamous figure of Cesare Borgia. Machiavelli’s work is notable for being written in vernacular Italian, making its innovative ideas accessible beyond scholarly Latin audiences. The treatise explores themes such as military defense, reputation management, generosity versus cruelty, and the role of fortune in politics. While controversial and often criticized as ruthless or even evil, "The Prince" remains a foundational text in political philosophy, provoking ongoing debate about the nature of power and leadership. Its practical approach to rulership continues to influence political thought centuries after its posthumous publication in 1532.

Reviews
Reddit - Philosophy · 2025-10-05
relevant 3.75

This Reddit discussion emphasizes Machiavelli's continued relevance, arguing that he is often misunderstood. The community appreciates his candid perspective on power.

In this Reddit thread, users discuss the enduring relevance of The Prince, often highlighting how Machiavelli's ideas are frequently misunderstood. The community appreciates his candid and sometimes brutal analysis of power and leadership. They argue that his insights are not just historical but offer valuable lessons for understanding modern political dynamics. The discussion also touches on how Machiavelli's pragmatic approach can be applied to contemporary leadership challenges.

Quick quotes

    Poor Niccolo is always misunderstood, and in the most horrible fashion.

    Machiavelli's insights into the nature of power and leadership are both thought-provoking and eye-opening.

    The Prince is an occasion piece. It was written in 1513 after the Medici had been returned to power.

Foyles · 2025-08-05
brilliant 4.00

The book is considered a brilliant guide for rulers focused on retaining power, highlighting its relevance for authoritarian or sectarian governments.

The review sees The Prince as a masterful political guide, particularly apt for leaders who prioritize maintaining power above all else. It notes that the treatise's focus on ruthless pragmatism and realpolitik makes it especially suited for dictators or sectarian leaders who operate with an emphasis on control and survival rather than moral ideals.

Quick quotes

    The prince is a brilliant book for dictators or sectarian governments.

    Most of the ideas focus on keeping princes in power.

    Concerned not with lofty ideals, but with a regime that would last.

The Invisible Mentor · 2025-03-24
insightful 4.00

The Prince is a timeless exploration of statecraft and leadership, offering practical advice on maintaining power. The insights remain relevant, though some arguments may seem harsh or cynical.

This review delves into Machiavelli's timeless exploration of statecraft and leadership, highlighting his practical advice on maintaining power. The reviewer appreciates the book's enduring relevance, noting that Machiavelli's insights continue to resonate in modern political landscapes. However, they also acknowledge that some of his arguments may come across as harsh or cynical, reflecting his pragmatic view of human nature. The book is seen as a crucial read for understanding the dynamics of power and governance.

Quick quotes

    Machiavelli's insights into the nature of power and leadership are both thought-provoking and eye-opening.

    The Prince is a timeless exploration of statecraft and leadership.

    The insights remain relevant, though some arguments may seem harsh or cynical.

Book in the Bag · 2015-05-30
pragmatic 4.50

The Prince is a political discourse that offers advice to princes on governance, blending historical examples with Machiavelli's personal experiences. The book is praised for its depth and practical wisdom.

This review explores The Prince as a political discourse that provides invaluable advice to princes on governance, blending historical examples with Machiavelli's personal experiences. The reviewer praises the book for its depth and practical wisdom, noting how Machiavelli's insights are rooted in real-world observations. They appreciate the book's timeless relevance and its ability to offer a unique perspective on power and leadership. The Prince is seen as a must-read for those interested in political strategy and statecraft.

Quick quotes

    The Prince is a political discourse which follows a literary genre of advice to princes on how to govern their territories.

    Machiavelli's was ... deeply rooted in his own experiences and observations.

    The Prince is seen as a must-read for those interested in political strategy and statecraft.

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