According to Machiavelli, a prince would be successful if he
A) ultimately became pope.
B) honestly explain his goals and actions to his people.
C) would guarantee the security of his position and state with no regard for morality.
D) would expect his government to guarantee trust and integrity by not violating any agreements with other nations or leaders.
E) would never resort to cruelty and terror.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Machiavelli believed that a prince should prioritize ensuring the security and stability of his state and maintaining his own position of power, even if it meant engaging in actions that were deemed immoral. He argued that sometimes it was necessary for a ruler to use cruelty and fear to maintain control and prevent rebellion, and that the end goal justified the means taken to achieve it. Therefore, the prince's morality should not interfere with what he deems is necessary for the success of his state.

According to Machiavelli, a Prince Would Be Successful If He