“Severities should be dealt out all at once, so that their suddenness may give less offense; benefits ought to be handed out drop by drop, so that they may be relished the more.”
- May 3, 1469 – June 21, 1527
- Born in the Republic of Florence (Italy)
- Political thinker and diplomat
- Wrote The Prince, built the foundations of modern political science, and advocated realist political thought
Quote
“Severities should be dealt out all at once, so that their suddenness may give less offense; benefits ought to be handed out drop by drop, so that they may be relished the more.”
Explanation
In this quote, Niccolò Machiavelli offers a strategic approach to the distribution of punishments and rewards in governance. He argues that punishments or severities should be administered quickly and all at once, so that their intensity is not prolonged, and the shock of their suddenness may reduce the resentment they cause. By contrast, benefits or rewards should be given gradually, allowing people to appreciate and savor them over time. Machiavelli’s advice stems from the idea that human psychology and emotion play a crucial role in governance. If punishments are drawn out, they create ongoing resentment, but if they are swift and final, their impact is sharper and more easily absorbed. Similarly, if rewards are given in small doses over time, people will feel more grateful and valued, and they will come to expect and appreciate them more fully.
Machiavelli’s philosophy here is pragmatic and rooted in the principles of realpolitik—the need for a ruler to understand how human beings respond to power and control. The purpose of punishments is to deter further wrongdoing and maintain order, while benefits are a way to maintain loyalty and inspire obedience among subjects. He advocates for a balance between fear and affection in a ruler’s relationship with their people. Severe measures can be necessary to maintain control, but the ruler must ensure that these measures do not lead to prolonged discontent. Rewards, on the other hand, foster loyalty and goodwill, but they should be given carefully to maximize their effectiveness. This approach reflects the cynical view Machiavelli had of human nature, where both fear and gratitude can be powerful tools for securing the loyalty of subjects.
In modern contexts, this quote has relevance in management, political leadership, and even in personal relationships. Leaders and managers often face the dilemma of how to handle both discipline and recognition. In a corporate environment, for instance, punishments for misconduct are often more effective when they are clear, decisive, and swift, while rewards (like promotions or bonuses) are more appreciated when they are given incrementally, creating a sense of anticipation and ongoing motivation. Similarly, politicians or public figures who need to address controversial issues may find that swift action (e.g., policy changes or public statements) is less likely to provoke backlash than prolonged delays. The idea of rewarding people over time can also be seen in the way governments or organizations encourage long-term commitment through ongoing incentives, rather than a one-off reward. Machiavelli’s quote reflects a timeless understanding of human psychology and strategy in leadership.
