In this thought-provoking treatise on political philosophy, Niccolo Machiavelli states: "So let a prince set about the task of conquering, and maintaining his state; his methods will always be judged honorable and will be universally praised." This has prompted many critics to quote him as arguing that the ends justify the means, and Machiavelli's name has become synonymous with political guile and devilish machinations. It is regrettable that his original meaning has been deliberately distorted or exaggerated.
The Prince is intended to advise princes what to do and what not to do if they are to achieve and maintain political power. In this much-criticized book, Machiavelli presents an erudite and insightful discussion about the nature and origins of principalities as well as informed comments about the relationship between a prince and his subjects. His clear-eyed appraisal of the political realities in medieval Italy is unparalleled, and his comment that "the best fortress that exists is to avoid being hated by the people" is convincing. The Prince is as informative and instructive as ever.