The Prince (Niccolò Machiavelli)

"The Prince," written by Niccolò Machiavelli in 1513, is a political treatise that offers pragmatic advice on how rulers can maintain power and control. Machiavelli emphasizes the importance of realism over idealism in politics, suggesting that leaders may need to use cunning, manipulation, and even cruelty when necessary. He famously argues that "the ends justify the means," meaning that the outcomes of actions can justify morally questionable choices. The work has sparked much debate regarding ethics in politics, influencing leaders and thinkers throughout history by highlighting the complexities of power and governance.