Niccolò Machiavelli's theory that if the end is to maintain political power for oneself, one's king, or one's political party, that will justify any means one might use for that purpose, such as force, surveillance, or even deceit, is both a consequentialist as well as a utilitarian theory.

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Machiavelli's theory is often considered consequentialist because it focuses on the outcomes of actions (i.e., maintaining political power) rather than the actions themselves. However, it is not accurately described as utilitarian because utilitarianism emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number, whereas Machiavelli's advice primarily targets the benefit of the ruler or ruling party, not necessarily the broader society.

Niccolò Machiavelli's Theory That If the End Is to Maintain