How Good People Lose Power | Machiavelli's The Prince

Machiavelli's The Prince is a book with a sordid and scandalous history. Banned for hundreds of years and thought to corrupt the minds of everyone that read it, it contains the insights of Niccolo Machiavelli on how to gain and retain power. And today we will see what lessons it has, and how it has been misinterpreted throughout the years.
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00:00 The Prince
01:18 The Fall of Idealism
05:34 The Necessity of Power
08:28 The Kindness of Cruelty
12:11 The Danger of Complacency
14:45 The Importance of Being Adaptable
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[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

If you want to work with an experienced study coach teaching maths, philosophy, and study skills then book your session at [e-mail]. Previous clients include students at the University of Cambridge and the LSE. Support me on Patreon here: patreon.com/UnsolicitedAdvice701?Link& Sign up to my email list for more philosophy to improve your life: forms.gle/YYfaCaiQw9r6YfkN7

[@bezorgerloef6671]

Hi there. Just watched your whole video. I have some interesting "philosophies" mixed into my books The Cogito Book The Book Of Thinking- The Startup Mindset, by Franco Loefstop, and Why The Rich Get Richer - The Different Education Of The Elite, by Franco Loefstop. Both books are on Amazon.

[@carkawalakhatulistiwa]

Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

[@NguyenMinh-vs1vm]

One of the most misunderstood aspect of Machiavelli’s work is his perception on love and fear. It’s not that a leader should always prioritize fear over love, but rather a leader has to be loved *and* feared, only choose fear if you can’t have *both* , and always avoid being hated.

[@dgameryoutube5045]

I didnt think people where much moral at all

[@cheems6193]

People like you never told me that knowledge is a weakness too who knows you may experience it a bit or experience it so so so hard like me your view of the world changes

[@Cantread807]

Machiavelli seemed like a realist. It takes a strong person to look at the ugliness of our reality and confirm that it is indeed just as we see it. But there is also wisdom to be found there, and if you follow the unpleasant thread of contemporary truth you will probably make sense of it all. Thanks for the breakdown!

[@mountelbert4214]

He also wrote a giant book on Roman writer Livy, and what he said in this book has led some people, like Blue from Overly Sarcastic Productions, to think that The Prince was actually satirical. I don’t know enough about the book to judge, but I think it is interesting

[@VVabsa]

​@@mountelbert4214 Given he wrote is as how his rulers worked, the Medici family. I'd say yes, it's somewhat satirical since it was based soley on the Medici family.

[@mountelbert4214]

@@VVabsa oh, cool! I never knew that

[@vccv9785]

Machiavelli was also largely unsuccessful in his life. Couldn't achieve the position he wanted ( despite all his " wisdom " ) in medici's polity.

[@Kaynan06]

Incredible video. I just finished watching and I have to say, the way you articulate other people's ideas in a way that is so easy to understand is admirable.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Ah thank you very much! That is very kind of you to say!

[@dwydeezdundoon]

@@unsolicitedadvice9198 give the christmas tree more screen time. love your stuff, just started c&p. didnt know russians had that many first names

[@FrightMask]

It's not just that. It's also how he doesn't waste a single extra word. Every sentence he uses is concise and full of meaning.

[@-Plube-]

Holy cow the glazingggggggggggg

[@alaska426]

@@-Plube-Positive feedback leads to more videos like this. It’s glazing but with a purpose

[@pokerani99]

A solid example of Machiavelli’s philosophy is Julius Caesar vs Augustus…Caesar was extremely loyal, even to his opposition, and cared more about the people, while Octavian destroyed even his allies if he thought they’d threaten him in the future…who ended up living and ruling longer?

[@ChiaraColetti]

Bravo. 👏🏼

[@lindat.9976]

Caesar was blinded by his own radiance.

[@pokerani99]

@@lindat.9976 he also pardoned Brutus, who supported Pompey during the civil war between Caesar and Pompey. Augustus on the other hand went to war against Marc Antony because he thought his elegance with Cleopatra was a threat to his power in Rome.

[@Juubith95]

But which one is remembered as THE emperor of Rome?

[@occamschainsaw3450]

Caesar didn't do it out of the kindness of his heart. He did it for people to owe him. Some even killed themselves after Caesar spared them, just to escape this deal. When Cicero writes "Let this be a new way to conquer - through compassion and generosity" he is quite literal in his use of the word "conquer".

[@Justineyedia]

Definitely truth to this. Quietly yearning for what you don't have while fearing losing what you do. Fear and desire. "All in all, human nature offers little to inspire. We can say this of most people: that they are ungrateful and unreliable; they lie, they fake, they're greedy for cash and they melt away in the face of danger". "How we live is so far removed from how we ought to live that he who studies what ought to be done rather than what is done will learn the way to his downfall rather than to his preservation". "The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him." "It is not titles that honor men, but men that honor titles."

[@zionmurrell6774]

Beautiful quotes 🤌🏿

[@ntshaupamojela259]

"I'm just a bloke with a camera and some books"...the humility 🙌🏿

[@Bf26fge]

The healthy narcissist tries to be in the top tier of everything, including humility lol. Healthy narcissism leads to confidence and goals and the endurance to work at things. Wisdom is knowing what goals are truly worthwhile and not going in the wrong direction. Being good at humility is a worthy goal and personally satisfying. It is also the reality that we are all dumfukz in most things. Accepting reality is good for us and makes us better people. Humility is good for us in the same way. He did it for himself. He has the confidence of healthy self love and nnarcissism. The confidence to know he can get better at everything he wants to dedicate the effort to. Virtues are for our own needs. That last sentence is a door for you into wisdom. explore it it if you want to.

[@thesexygrandpacollective5053]

Modesty is not humility.

[@Germanicus_Daimetor]

He’s right about people caring about “looking good” as opposed to actually being good. It’s hard to step away from it though morality is used against us our entire life…

[@fayekalantzis-oy6dp]

The concept of fear to control the masses has been attributed to religion this strongly applies in USA government have attempted to inflict death penalties/ confiscate weapons in other countries works/ encouraging xenophobia works equally well - the border wall between me ico and USA) exceptionally well Violence against women is at an all time high Religion / imprisonment isn't a deterrent

[@rappar9673]

He is very wrong; it's the fakers who are wrong. The trick is to learn how to distinguish the fakers from the legit ones.

[@DJRenee]

You can do both but the look matters, unfortunately.

[@talkingtakotaco8611]

Well, keep in mind this was said with regards to keeping a civil state rather than if one is good or not. Whether you are good or not, it is important that you appear good, because doing so will best secure you and your state.

[@LightS_bRight]

Exactly ​@@rappar9673

[@Bf26fge]

Morals and virtues are to live by, not to die by.

[@DJRenee]

Distinct difference for sure

[@Yonkipog]

Only if hindus were this smart 8 centuries ago , we wouldn't have been cucked by islam . And its crazy how this only 1 sentence is all that required .

[@user-lz7vh5in3f]

“Absorb what is useful, discard what is not, add what is uniquely your own." - Bruce Lee

[@emerceel]

This quote can be very dangerous. Who decides what is useful and what is to be discarded? It describes perfectly well what we often see to be a 'political bubble' nowadays. Although very similar things have happened in history already. For example Nazi Germany. What I mean is when you take in a very one-sided point of view and you absorb every information and argument that supports it, but you discard any opposition as ludicrous. Questioning one's own beliefs is imo just as important as standing firm to them. Because otherwise we are always in danger of becoming blind to the ways we could actually improve with.

[@granda3649]

​@@emerceelGod.

[@LowHangingFruitForest]

@@emerceelby this logic it is dangerous to encourage anyone to think for themselves because they may choose to think in a way that you deem immoral.

[@emerceel]

@@LowHangingFruitForest not at all. Please think! Think and question your thoughts in order to think some more and as a result form your own well informed opinions. According to my explained logic it is dangerous to stop thinking and stop questioning what you are believing. Because that is the moment your opinions are being shaped by others and not yourself.

[@skuyliving8889]

​@@emerceelI cant imagine of world when everybody is self sufficient in every aspect. Think about it

[@Multi1]

That's one of the biggest problems with the world is that people ignore other perspectives. Since they assume others are wrong or even evil they avoid them like plagues. An example I experienced earlier is this woman who reports all my comments involving contraversy with no response.

[@dwacheopus]

She is just obsessed with you and wants your attention

[@Multi1]

@@dwacheopus So she's a bully? I would have guessed.

[@komodokisaragi9398]

idk, it avoiding certain people might be the way to go in most situation. i recently moved to a new area and started a new job. met alot of people. being nice and fair does not work so i had to go back to the old me. the dont give a fk version. it pushed alot of snakes away and i keep my circle small and only deal with ginuine people i know wont backstab

[@Multi1]

@@komodokisaragi9398 That is why people need to get involved in philosophy. Philosophy if you ask me, is the most important subject in general. It has a lot of benefits, but one of them relevant here that has prerequisites I'm not going to cover. You can quickly analyze what someone says and if curious enough, you look into it and change your perspective of life and or the world.

[@danielefabbro822]

I think she likes you. An old Italian motto says: "who despise, buy it"

[@WeShallOvercome_]

As we go into World War 3, I’m sure Machiavelli would judge us as being complacent and wasting much of the decades of peace and prosperity - and partly by not teaching practical philosophy in school. Old practical philosophy dies hard, after all.

[@ishyameru6232]

It’s by design

[@Not-Ap]

​@@ishyameru6232It doesn't matter. As long as this knowledge is floating around out there a new state or states will rise that will be even more lethal than the previous. Then the people who stood by or instigate the change will have no one to blame but themselves.

[@azazelgrigori9244]

Regarding how Machiavelli's work relates to today, I will say this. As far as I've gathered in the past few years, morality seems to often be used to control people. Our sense of basic human kindness, trust, forgiveness, and loyalty is made into an obligation than a right. We are told "If you don't do this, then that means you're a bad person. This is a sort of moral blackmail. It forces us to give up critical thinking and common sense just to be seen as good and moral people. Unfortunately, because of this moral blackmail, we become less willing to question, and possibly more willing to participate in, injustices that happen around us. And I'm not necessarily talking about the woke left. The conservative right is just as much to blame for moral blackmail as well. Sure, maybe not at the current moment, but certainly during its own time period. What I'm getting at is that humans have the potential towards empathy, loyalty, and comradery. However, these things are being used against us right now. So, to survive, we have to adopt some level of selfishness, apathy, and possibly even judgment. At least for the time being. So, yes, I think that Machiavelli is still relevant.

[@jjhh320]

I think our compassion is not boundless, and is more like a valuable resource that takes time to develop and needs to be handled wisely. The moral blackmail is essentially someone showing up to your property and demanding free access to this resource. We should have the right to put a boundary there and stick up for it. People unworthy of trust will never be cool with that, and that is quite telling of them imo

[@azazelgrigori9244]

@@jjhh320 (Gasp) So, you're a "bigot!" I'm just kidding. I agree, but Anton Levay said the exact same thing in the Satanic Bible. "Love those who deserve your love. Don't waste it on those who don't.

[@carlyrios8297]

If someone came to my house and demanded to sleep in it. My first thought is that person feels entitled to my things/resources and my compassion. People forget they have to earn trust and compassion from others and they aren't entitled to any of it. But this also brings up the topic of where did these people get definitions confused. You cannot force someone to be compassionate towards you because it is something willing and given not forced. You cannot force love and trust. But they want it to be so they can get what benefits themselves.

[@azazelgrigori9244]

@@carlyrios8297 I've also come to the conclusion that respect is not an action, it's a feeling. You don't DO respect. You feel it. You work convince someone to feel like you respect them. But you can't FORCE someone to feel anything. And people tend to have their own ideas as to how they "should" be treated. Some are more high maintenance than others. And those who are have no concern how they affect others, just in how others affect them.

[@neptun6761]

​@@carlyrios8297 You pay taxes

[@JonV.Jordan]

finally someone who can talk about this books and topics without having a one pace monologue that is hard to follow and makes me go asleep. I like your tone and how you change it and put accent on different words, it keeps me focused on what you have to say. I also like your interpretation on the works you mention and agree with most of them. Keep up the good work!

[@kyleclawson8130]

Machiavelli, explained this way, reminds me of a Jungian shadow. It’s dark and possibly even evil, but it’s even worse to ignore. A Machiavellian state of mind would be useful to visit for understanding, but not to set up residence in

[@stevereeves871]

I'll forever respect machivelli, true realist who spits facts

[@hyjjjkyikk3158]

It kinda sucks if fear is just the best motivator out of the rest motivation. Being pushed around and coerced to do things kinda sucks ass.its like military, a shitty ass place for those who want freedom.

[@irrelevantcheese8623]

He was being sort of satirical like he was trying to point out the brutal reality of politics to just how bad of people rulers like the medicis were

[@lozza2272]

​@hyjjjkyikk3158 unless it is only used for extremely necessary rules eg murder etc. Otherwise, you have your freedom to do as you please.

[@irrelevantcheese8623]

@@hyjjjkyikk3158 I think the full quote was if you can’t be both it is better to be feared than loved but avoid being hated at all costs

[@PaidAMaluCachu]

Love your style of videos. Not watered down at all but not an hour long lecture. Just the core subject matter and your passion and excitement for it. Keep up the good work!

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Ah thank you! I try my best to strike a balance

[@General_Kenobi_212]

Machiavelli: "I intend to write a book about you one day." Ezio: "If you do Machiavelli, make it short." - Assassin's Creed Brotherhood

[@gaghhuh2943]

Literally the game which made me interested in philosophy and history

[@verybigboss]

@@gaghhuh2943back when the series was good

[@puertoaeternus486]

I was a student in college and spoke to a tutor of philosophy from time to time. I liked his take, and I was interested in philosophy. He mentioned to me that someone wrote about Machiavelli as writing the instruction book aimed at the princes of Europe and praised the Catholic church for striking heretics down but pointed out that the Ottoman princes were afraid of the sultan and would turn on him. I think Machiavelli's approach was the most concise for its time. A comparable analogy for today would be "Never Split the Difference" by Mark Voss.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

That’s so interesting! One of the things Machiavelli praises is the loyalty of the Sultan’s deputies - perhaps that explains why

[@erikkosir5870]

Knowledge is a gift and a curse.

[@savsmaster4183]

The idea of securing the state from foreign threats first and foremost, both militarily and economically reminds me of the principles taught by the American School of Economics. It’s like the statement “Those who try to secure the liberty of the individual before the liberty of the nation will ultimately have neither”. Self sufficiency, independence, both politically, and economically are very important. Washington warned against foreign entanglements, and it is not good when your nation is dependent on another for goods and important resources.

[@kevinnguyen2216]

This Channel is a goldmine glad I found it recently

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you!

[@benwinter2420]

Fools gold , philosophers have an different opinion depending . . on side of bed

[@JackCarsonite]

Great overview of The Prince. Frederick the Great has an excellent rebuttal in the form of an annotated version of The Prince. That's deep down the rabbit hole.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

I need to read it. I am personally a bit more optimistic about aspects of human nature that Machiavelli

[@NapoleonCalland]

​@@unsolicitedadvice9198 Frédéric was a Stoic who took his cue from Marcus Aurelius, so his Anti-Machiavel is a blueprint for being the incarnation of the philosopher-king. 🦁 ☀️ 🐝 ⚡ 🦅 ⚡ 🐝 ☀️ 🦁

[@MorteWulfe]

​@@unsolicitedadvice9198that is because you are young. Enjoy this time as it lasts.

[@bienvvo]

As a millennial myself, watching someone from the generation Z being interested in this classic makes me feel happy and hopeful for that generation 😊

[@jaykisuke3397]

Did you go to harvard?

[@theemirofjaffa2266]

What's that supposed to mean? ​@@jaykisuke3397

[@crapmalls]

As a gen x im amused to see people who still seem to have hope

[@Yuri-nc9vl]

​@@crapmallsIndeed, we are on a huge downfall, most people ebraced hedonism, I see the future like in the book 1984 or Brave New World

[@natpat6394]

We exist.

[@eimantemiseviciute73]

I love the way you put everything so clear, you are very talented ❤

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you! That’s very kind!

[@eimantemiseviciute73]

Just admiring 😊 you are welcome x

[@sunbrah]

I read the Prince in the worst time of my life. Now my life is stable and secure. Because i took some of Machiavelli's advice to heart. For example: i cut out people who were using my kindness to their own benefit. Yeah my reputation took a fall. But now i met genuine people who care about me. Yes sometimes im harsh and no nonsense. But these people respect that and they respect my boundaries. No one messes with me anymore. Being respected again because i respect myself again feels... good. Also understanding how evil humans can be it helps me to stay wary so I don't accept a bad person in my life and so much more. So yes if youre struggling, id suggest reading the Prince. Take the advice to heart

[@archykhn4513]

I have a really confusing personality. I tend to be reserved with people but with my closed ones im so talkative that they barely say anything. This makes me feel frustrated from time to time. Im not open with my family either but i depended on my bestfriend mentality and emotionally. Put too much emotion in the relationships that it feels like I'm the only one in it. But recently I've realised i have to learn being fully on my own so i stopped reaching out first. They call me from time to time but only to talk about something happened in their lives. I listen, we hang up.

[@nathaniel1069]

I don’t get what this is supposed to achieve. Congratulations, you’ve burnt the bridges of the few close relationships you’ve had instead of compromising?

[@lilfr4nkie]

Stumbled onto your channel and video on paradise lost yesterday at work and it’s safe to say I’m about 15 videos in now. Thank you & please, never stop.

[@rob4419]

I love your use of Caravaggio's paintings with the themes of this video, they exhibit a certain level of horror I expect from a terrified and anxious Italy.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Ah thank you! He has some spectacular paintings

[@KinoZoomer]

Now this I can get behind, Dostoevsky writes of the ideal, but Machiavelli of the entirely real. Cynicism is right, a dose of badness is needed to get through this life intact. Kino.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

He is certainly a bit of a cynic

[@stevereeves871]

Facts. Just that some people lack the mental toughness to admit it and want to play the good guy 24 7s, doing that alone hasn't gotten us anywhere

[@elkamps]

People wanting to play the good are just themselves being maquiavelics

[@klosnj11]

As I was listening to this, I kept thinking of all sorts of different historical examples. The fact that any of them seem like they could be the epitome of these topics kind of shows just how universally applicable Machiavelli's ideas really were. Great video. Glad I subscribed.

[@blueicer101]

This thing about fear is it actually doesn't work as well as true love. True love is totally selfless and you can only be selfless when you are already self-reliant and self fulfilled meaning you must prioritize yourself to be able to genuinely care for others. This is why you constantly see mafia bosses be so beloved by their subordinates, because they priotizie themselves to the extreme and whatever is left, they are able to give freely with true intent on helping others. Others may see this as extreme as when the going gets tough, they'll use their suboridinates but that's because their subordinates often rely on the giving and in their relationship are subordinate because they revieve more from the exchanges, thus in the end have a debt to pay and will lay down their life. It sounds transactional but this is the reality. Fear works on a grand scale because you cannot provide this deep love bond with thousands of strangers, you do not know unless you are literally the most self sufficient being, a god, who needs literally nothing physical and not even gratitude, or acknowledgement, only then can you love all.

[@jaron3048]

this was a good breakdown thank u for the comment

[@Penultimate1785]

I also like ​@@jaron3048

[@etuy5703]

Resepect>love>fear

[@komodokisaragi9398]

that first part where he said people do dastardly things all the time is true. the funny part is people that do shit and in turn harm people they supposedly love always end up miserable.

[@hemantjain2387]

4:52 thanks for the recommendation, it's nice of you to share writings of people that may restore our faith ones again.

[@jerseattle0722]

Great vid! I’m optimistic with ppl I know will behave. It’s how we treat strangers that gets concerning. Simple example: the homeless. I think we want to be a model of love and empathy but reality is those traits are reserved. Thank you soo so much for posting this. It’s a brain teaser in a way.

[@manofsteal2792]

The video is highly needed. Lived every thoughs you encounterd

[@the_expidition427]

Applied knowledge is power

[@dragonskinavi]

Having watched the video, my inner Machiavelli is raising a toast to you with a sly smile....kudos!

[@Acekhan201]

I first read The Prince in 2005 and have studied it ever since. I could discuss it for hours in terms of interpretation, application, and more, but I have no notes for this video. You clearly have a strong grasp of the entire text and a healthy balance of attention to detail and objective distance. I will likely recommend this content to those interested in Machiavelli who may find the traditional study approach wanting.

[@tamzin5560]

Your videos are so well presented and informative, as well as entertaining so thankyou!

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you! I’m glad you like them!

[@AmidalaEmma]

I love your words on stoicism here. About honing your inner strength and being confident in yourself. Stoicism changed my life.

[@AS-np3yq]

Thats why Marcus Aurelius' meditations are central part of catholic education.

[@caliburn1123]

There was a similar book called Arthashastra by Chanakya more than 1500 years before Machiavelli that draws upon similar conclusions. Chanakya was the one who crowned the first historical Emperor of India whose rule extended till present day Afghanistan. In a way he helped Emperor chandragupta rule over an area more than 10 times bigger than italy.

[@icode4797]

I think the portion "kindness of cruelty" could have a counterproductive effrot an enemey state might exploit the suffering and frustration of the citizens

[@JavaoftheLava]

Love how you reacfirmed your stance on just wanting to start thinking onstead of following it

[@Justineyedia]

It is hard to know who we actually are. We hide ourselves behind masks of pretense and deception. We try to act the way we think others want us to act. Even though we may try to do this a little, we usually end up not being who we really are. The self is a complex and dynamic construct influenced by personal experiences, cultural background, and beliefs about oneself and others. Our interactions with others can affect our sense of self, and there is a tension between the desire for coherence and the desire for freedom in our self-perception. The concept of self is not static, but rather constantly evolving through social interactions and the ongoing construction of our identity. Our self is a construction of relationships and interactions, constrained and yet in search of the feeling of freedom.

[@ascend555]

You're here for an experience. There will always be trials and tribulations. Stay tapped into your higher self

[@Tiffanyii]

What a pleasent discovery it is to find your great channel ❤

[@AntiSocialismo50]

In easy times we need to prepare for the harden times. Good one

[@farhanrafid8584]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 *📚 Machiavelli's "The Prince" challenges idealistic views, advocating for realism in politics.* 01:20 *🔍 Idealistic views of human nature lead to flawed governance; Machiavelli emphasizes the necessity of power over virtue.* 03:26 *⚖️ Machiavelli advises rulers to prioritize stability over morality for effective governance.* 08:24 *🔨 Cruelty, when applied judiciously, ensures stability and security in a ruler's reign.* 12:05 *🚨 Complacency is the downfall of established rulers; vigilance is essential to maintain power.* 15:44 *🔄 Adaptability is crucial for rulers; Machiavelli's insights require contextual understanding for modern application.* Made with HARPA AI

[@najifaanjum3324]

Lately I've been latching on to your videos about philosophical stuff for dealing with the ever increasing amount of anxiety about life. I guess as the academic pressure increases, the dark circles under one's eyes never really go away. Okay maybe that's too morbid, and in reality things are a lot brighter. And your lectures are truly quite amazing in making life make more sense. Thanks bro🫡

[@Rileysparadox]

THANK YOU!!!. I HAVE READ THIS BOOK COVER TO COVER.. AND YOUR WORDS EXPLAINS ITS SO WELL. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND ENERGY SIR.

[@ftw485]

I do not have any intentions to appear derogatory but your accent is wild, very captivating.

[@hebercluff1665]

Why would it be derogatory to compliment someone?

[@DudeNamedMarko1]

This is a great video G. You may not have any success now but keep going. You content is amazing. Don't stop. Keep pushing G. You will make it.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you! I appreciate the vote of confidence

[@stillon7280]

This idea of staying in power so you have access to make real positive impact in the future is kind of a political black hole: politicians is voted in by common people based on actual productive ideas, then gradually the people that secure your votes for you to keep climbing the ladder is other statesmen not the people you serve. This makes well intentioned politicians to adjust their strategy to “stay in power” using the idea of their good intentions to continually accept compromise. The result is that whoever is in power (think big pharma/oil/balackrock/fidelity/weapons) gets their way, cause politicians thinking they need to stay in power to make a positive impact “some time in the future”. Of course that never happens and the politician with amazing ideas is reduced to a copy of everyone else, and nothing changes.

[@DJWESG1]

Those little pencils and those polling stations do offer a semblance of legitimacy, it's felt in the doing. Almost as if it means something.

[@curious_one1156]

remember, Machiavelli did not care about "positive impact". He just cared about power.

[@thanzi4148]

Absolutely loved this video ABSOLUTELY

[@unfgreen]

This is the most insightful analysis of The Prince I've ever heard.

[@ALIHaSsAn-pj5bo]

wow no words for this effort ❤❤❤❤ incredible

[@viktorkurpita1631]

Super interesting video, i can see that you're passionate about what you say and you're very good at it !

[@Anythingforfreedom]

Fantastic job man . I love this content.

[@RishiKumar-os7zd]

Absolutely love your content. ❤

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you so much! I am really glad you are enjoying it

[@Joel_au8290]

you sir, are a gift. thank you

[@OrdnanceLab]

Great video and insight.

[@TheBlindSurgeon]

Really great video, I love the passion and energy you put it to articulate the ideas of Machiavelli. I learned a lot and thank you 😇

[@BreakingTheMatrix-cc1ct]

Very clear and articulate many thanks for the video this a gold mine of knowledge 💯💯💯💯🙏🙏👍

[@Yoshi_Meatsu]

Finding this channel is like I struck a gold mine of endless knowledge

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Ah thank you! That is very kind!

[@toni2309]

The thing about adaptability, when to apply what advice, philosophy, mindset, virtue or whatever, is something I learnt the hard way in life as well, and definitely one of the biggest lessons I ever learnt.

[@kamalkumar7978]

Shade some lights.

[@redsusas00]

Love these kind of videos, cant believe you dont have more subs

[@Megaliberator-mt4dc]

So much truth in Machiavelli's insight😮

[@shreeja4939]

Stumbled into Machiavelli because of Foucault and this is such a lovely intro to his work!! Thank you for sharing ❤️🌸💫

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you for watching!

[@mardalegallego7630]

This is like a new perspective for me, well-explained video. ❤

[@connerblank5069]

I've always liked the interpretation that Machiavelli was eithrr attempting a reductio ad absurdum, and underestimated just how serious people would take it all sort of like Schrodinger's Cat, or otherwise throwing veiled criticism at the inhumanity of nobles, who he hated.

[@craftit9715]

You also should cover Kautilya Arthshastra... On Governance and Statecraft.

[@hermanfigueroa32]

I just purchased the book last week, it is amazing, it helps with everything in life, work, relationship, friendship. Absolute power!

[@Stoptheusinfightingwemustbe1]

Letsget bro to 100k well made video. Great look into the mind and ideas of the one sir him.

[@RealCoolCowboy]

Glad this video was actually about the Prince and not turning into a screed on Fiat currency.

[@Fenrisson]

Thank you so much for explaining this to me! I've read that cursed book some three times, and wasn't quite sure of it's message.

[@Paracelsus23]

You're a Terrific speaker!

[@claytonwhitacre1752]

I've listened to audiobook versions of this, and I believe that he's right.

[@neongenesis7236]

11:56 Absolutely relevant. History is not linear- it’s Endless Cycle

[@nomadman5288]

The one thing I do not care for is the use of the word "power" due to it's ambiguity, and especially when it's really referring to something more specific like "influence," "ability" or "control."

[@reidmigu5787]

Incredible video

[@properspelinng2455]

This is great thank you so much

[@Finnatese]

I'm just a random commenter on the internet, but if you read the Prince in the context of Machiavelli"s life it has a different meaning. Machiavelli spent his entire life fighting for democracy, power of the people. When the Medici were ousted from Florence he began preaching to the people that they can govern themselves, they don't need rulers. He even trained a militia and instilled them with a patrotism towards their new free city. But when the Medici came back, they brought a highly trained spanish merc army and butchered the militia. Machiavelli fled into exile. From here there is a lot of hersey about his motives, but his book the Prince could be interpreted as a warning for the people of how rulers will control them, rather than a guidebook on how to control. It could be argued that his experience in losing the lives of many men in defense of his ideal democratic city state made him bitter, but he was a very brilliant man and I don't think his book would be so relevant and admired today if it was just a defeated man's bitter musings at how life sucks. So if you use a reductio ad absurdum meaning to his works, lines like "It is better to be feared than loved if you cannot be both," there's more to his words than a straight-forward endoresment. He could be showing the flaws and contraditctions in rulers with that mindset, who prioritize fear over love. By presenting fear as the superior option, he provokes readers into recognizing the absurdity of such a stance. Better to be feared than loved is such a stupid quote, I hate when people bring it up.

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Funnily enough a lot of anarchists favour this reading. I think the “feared better than loved” quote needs to be taken in the context he is using it - as the ruler of a newly conveyer state it is better to be feared than loved. He just meant it as advice to stay in power (and at that, possibly power in the short term, given how highly he views being respected by one’s people). I too find it a bit odd when people use it as a guiding principle of their life, since we are not conquering Italian princes, it doesn’t make sense for us to take it as our North Star. The Prince is almost exclusively concerned with recently established precarious rule. For his more general political philosophy his Discourses on Livy are really good.

[@che8004]

Great video bro , makes me wanted to re read the prince again and I love your gorgeus hair btw

[@TobiasVokes]

What a great video mate!

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you!

[@Retheraq]

This is still extremely relevant, especially when dealing with women. Complacency kills relationships, women's expectations and requirements are limitless ( if you are not 2 metres tall that is, if you are, they have none)😊

[@golurauthan4169]

Amazing channel

[@hemantjain2387]

I agree with how Machiavelli saw other people and can certainly think of instances where I would find it in people as well. It doesn't take one to be concerned with power to see it. It's all about hypocrisy. People are liars. I am from India and over here parents would first complain about how doctors are just in it for money and treat them as same as scammers which I can't say I disagree many are that way. And yet when it comes to guiding their children they would even force them to be doctors , why? Well the pay is good. In people's view another doctor should only become a doctor if they want to save life but their kid should become doctor because the pay is good. People complain of government officials being corrupt and lazy but they deem it best for their kid to get a government job, because than thier kid can laze around. I am sure this hypocrisy is all around the world just in different ways. And people like Machiavelli saw that and deemed it dangerous for themselves and hence the thought of abandoning others if it satisfies themselves (it may or may not be right just depends on who they betray).

[@jakariashafin1695]

Hey man I am from Bangladesh and while I can see where your coming from not everyone is like that and I'd argue they don't realise there being hypocrits in the first place there's no time to think when your struggling not to starve by doing your job

[@hemantjain2387]

@@jakariashafin1695 I get you too, and yes it's one thing if someone is starving but the whole view changes when it's to satisfy their endless greed, it just gets one super angry, I also agree that many people don't realize but it's same for many criminals, criminals who have commited heinous crimes like ra*es more often than not think and believe they did nothing wrong. It gets worse when people just do it to feel superior I aam from India and people here would condemn those eating beef, claiming cow is a hold animal and calling it their mother but when they are shown the reality of dairy industry and be asked to switch to vegan for their religion, they would get defensive, say it's their culture and tradition. I couldn't care less about what another eats or drink so long as I am not forced to go along with them, but it just gets annoying seeing their weakness and refusal to change in name of culture and tradition when they don't live in clay houses or wear Dhoti. Even than tradition is something that will change with time anyways so I get trying to preserve it but, it's not a justification for actions. It's a logical fallacy (the appeal to tradition) yet politics can run on that is just brutal. (Sorry I went for rant there. Thanks)

[@jakariashafin1695]

@@hemantjain2387 no issue your thoughts are understandable.

[@lathanielulofoshio7889]

So I now know what next book to read.

[@amazonmasarira5538]

Love your content bro, the simplicity and lucidity is amazing. Can you Baltasar Gracian's The Art Of Worldly Wisdom next or sometime in the future

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you! And I have not read it but I will have a look

[@NapoleonCalland]

​​@@unsolicitedadvice9198 It's referenced by Robert Greene in his 48 Laws of Power 😉 Happy viewing and Study 😉 kzbin.info/aero/PLD3FBC74961A51706&si=PuT9FIIa6L022YRK 🦁 ☀️ 🐝 ⚡ 🦅 ⚡ 🐝 ☀️ 🦁

[@abhilashd6360]

I realised very recently that a leader need not be moral or likeable, but he has to be capable of taking necessary actions to ensure safety and prosperity of his subjects or those who depend on him. A good person is basically a sheep that could be used and discarded by others. Don't strive to be nice person,strives be a capable and strong person

[@RakanJass]

Well done boy keep going🎉🎉🎉

[@isaac_3455]

Interesting enough I been adopting similar principles mention by the view Machiavelli had on holding power. I am not well versed in fallacies and philosophical debate terms/ jargon but I can’t help but to mention how this video came at the right moment. Where I differ from the view Machiavelli had is that I can’t use this approach for every case but certain cases do require a cruel approach.

[@MrAllada]

Good narration!

[@Fenrisson]

"Dastarly!". That was fun to hear!

[@theYoutubeHandle]

security and success doesn't justify evil. In fact, chasing success is what evil people do. I believe evil people don't deserve mercy. They deserve what they dish out. The problem is when you stare into the abyss, the abyss stares back. Soon you'll lose sight of who you are, and your psychology will change as you enagage in nastiness. It's not that important to flourish in this world as only evil thrives anyways. Rather save your souls as I believe that's what makes you beautiful as human beings. Of course, if you only care about superficial things then you won't agree. Superficiality is a big red flag. Stay safe, people.

[@NowioFel]

You'll grow up, kid. Someone will surely pray for people like you.

[@theYoutubeHandle]

@@NowioFel yes, that's how this world works. That's my point. You can die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain. If you care about surviving or even thriving in this world this much, you'll eventually lose your soul. But you obviously don't care about your soul. Doing well in this world is very important to you. We all die in the end. Your achievements will mean nothing. I hope you will bring joy and laughter to people around you while you are here, as I think it's far more meaningful. But you do you, my friend.

[@NowioFel]

@@theKZbinHandle Now, would you say that you are a nihilist or an absurdist?

[@theYoutubeHandle]

@@NowioFel I believe we all die in the end and maybe there is a after life, but probably not. You can do whatever in this world and it will probably mean nothing in the end. Your purpose is probably just reproduce so that they can carry on. And their goal is to reproduce and repeat.

[@theYoutubeHandle]

@@NowioFel I believe maybe there is an after life, but probably not. You can do whatever in this world and it will mean nothing. Your purpose is probably just to reproduce so that they can carry on, and their purpose is to reproduce and repeat. But you have to check what kind of world are you reproducing in. In a world where only cockroaches thrive, everyone eventually evolves into a cockroach or they die out. Maybe your goal is just to have a good time when you are here and you don't mind being a cockroach, then by all means, have fun. This world is perfect for you. And I pray to god there is hell for people like that, but that doesn't look likely. So really, you can be whoever you want in this world. But if you care about your soul and the souls of the people around you, then u might want to think again about that reproduction plan.

[@successsystem2468]

Fantastic video. I just know how this guy will look and talk even when he's 79 👍👍

[@trentonknight8643]

Really good vid! Somethings about Machiavelli. Philosophy is great

[@unsolicitedadvice9198]

Thank you!

[@busyshah]

Something to be revisited every now and then i. This world full of Machiovelliance princes

[@Sangar369]

Your speaking style made me subscribe ❤

[@trevorwright2]

Great video

[@Mundproductionfunkhaus]

Excellent merci