“War should be the only study of a prince. He should consider peace only as a breathing-time, which gives him leisure to contrive, and furnishes as ability to execute, military plans.”
- 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
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Quote
“War should be the only study of a prince. He should consider peace only as a breathing-time, which gives him leisure to contrive, and furnishes as ability to execute, military plans.”
Explanation
In this quote, Niccolò Machiavelli underscores the central role of military strategy and preparedness in a ruler’s responsibilities. He argues that a prince should dedicate the majority of their time and effort to understanding and preparing for war. For Machiavelli, a ruler’s primary duty is to maintain power and secure the state, and this can only be effectively achieved through mastery of military affairs. He suggests that periods of peace are not to be seen as moments of relaxation or complacency, but rather as temporary respites that provide a ruler with the opportunity to prepare and strategize for the inevitable challenges and conflicts that will arise. Peace, in this sense, serves as a brief interval during which the ruler can consolidate resources, train their forces, and plan for future military action.
This view is consistent with Machiavelli’s broader philosophy that stability and security come not from ideals of virtue or moral righteousness, but from the pragmatic use of power—particularly through force and warfare. The ideal ruler, in Machiavelli’s eyes, is one who is always ready for conflict, and even in times of peace, their mind and actions are oriented towards ensuring that the state is prepared for the next war. This is a reflection of his belief that the world is inherently unstable, and a ruler must always be ready to defend or expand their domain through military means if necessary.
In modern contexts, this quote can be interpreted as a metaphor for how leaders should view their role in preparation and readiness. While today’s leaders may not be involved in direct warfare as much as in Machiavelli’s time, the idea of strategic planning and constant vigilance remains relevant. In the business world, for instance, companies often treat market competition like a form of ongoing war, where they must be constantly prepared to defend their market position and plan for expansion. Similarly, in political leadership, even in times of peace, leaders must remain vigilant in managing their resources, building alliances, and ensuring their military or economic strength is ready to face any potential threats. This Machiavellian approach emphasizes the need for proactive preparation and the understanding that peace should not lead to complacency, but rather should be seen as an opportunity for a ruler to build strength for the future.
