“Hatred is gained as much by good works as by evil.”
- 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
“Hatred is gained as much by good works as by evil.”
Explanation
In this quote, Niccolò Machiavelli underscores the idea that human reactions—particularly hatred—are often irrational and unpredictable, and they can be provoked just as easily by good deeds as by evil actions. Machiavelli suggests that even those who act with the best intentions or attempt to do what is morally right can still inspire hostility from others, especially if their actions threaten the interests or status of individuals or groups. In his view, moral actions that are perceived as contrary to the desires or expectations of others can provoke resentment and anger just as much as immoral actions.
This idea aligns with Machiavelli’s broader understanding of human nature, which he saw as self-interested and prone to jealousy, fear, and suspicion. A ruler or leader who seeks to act virtuously may still attract animosity from those who feel threatened by their actions, even if those actions are intended to benefit society as a whole. For instance, a ruler who enacts reforms to reduce corruption or redistribute power could provoke hatred from those who benefit from the existing system, even though the reforms are ultimately good for the public. This paradoxical nature of public opinion reflects the complexity of governance, where doing what is right does not guarantee the support of the people, and doing what is wrong does not necessarily provoke rejection.
In the modern context, this idea remains relevant in both politics and business. Leaders who push for change or progressive reforms may find that their actions are met with resistance, even from those who would benefit from those changes. For example, politicians who implement policies to combat income inequality or climate change may face backlash from powerful lobbies, industries, or conservative groups who fear losing economic advantages, even though such policies could lead to long-term benefits for society. Similarly, business leaders who attempt to improve working conditions or promote ethical practices may face hostility from investors or competitors who are focused on short-term profits. Machiavelli’s quote serves as a reminder that public opinion is not always rational, and hostility can arise from even the most well-intentioned actions.
