"The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him."
"A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example."
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Source: Niccolo Machiavelli (2017). “The Prince”, p.99, Race Point Publishing
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