“The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.”
- 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
“The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.”
Explanation
In this quote, Niccolò Machiavelli asserts that the quality of a ruler’s advisors and associates is a direct reflection of their own intelligence and judgment. The people a ruler surrounds themselves with, particularly in positions of power or influence, offer insight into their own capabilities and decision-making. If a ruler has wise, capable, and competent individuals around them, it suggests that the ruler themselves is able to recognize talent, delegate authority, and make sound decisions. Conversely, if a ruler’s inner circle is made up of incompetent or self-serving individuals, it may indicate that the ruler lacks the wisdom or judgment to choose wise companions, and this could undermine their leadership and governance.
Machiavelli’s observation highlights the importance of leadership and the ability to surround oneself with competent people. He argues that wise rulers are those who not only understand their own strengths and weaknesses but also seek out individuals who complement their abilities and can offer valuable counsel. In contrast, those who surround themselves with yes-men or ineffective advisors risk leading poorly and making decisions that harm their state or reputation. This idea is part of Machiavelli’s broader belief in the necessity for rulers to act pragmatically and to leverage the talents of others, understanding that a ruler’s personal intelligence is often reflected in the quality of their decisions and the people they rely on.
In modern contexts, this concept is evident in leadership across various fields. For instance, in business, a CEO or executive’s effectiveness is often judged by the strength of their team. A strong leader knows how to hire, delegate to, and empower skilled individuals, which leads to organizational success. In politics, a leader’s advisors, ministers, or cabinet members can make or break a policy, as the ruler’s success is often tied to the expertise and vision of their closest allies. The idea also extends to personal life, where the people someone associates with can reveal much about their character, intelligence, and decision-making. Machiavelli’s quote thus serves as a reminder that good leadership is not just about individual prowess but about creating and maintaining a strong, capable team that can work toward shared goals.
