All powerful men in Pakistan, without exception, are in practice work exactly according to the following 17 principles laid down by the realist Italian thinker Niccolo Machiavelli (1469 – 1527) in his book ‘The Prince’. The book consists mainly of the tips on the art of power for effective discipline and authority in the affairs of state. Today, these principles are followed alike by all powerful men and women; whether politicians, generals, bureaucrats or feudal lords, mafia, bosses and business tycoons. Even the dumbest person can acquire power and gain influence by applying Machiavelli’s rules.
Here are the rules.
- Better To Be Feared Than Loved – a person would wish to be both loved and feared but it is difficult to unite them in one person. It is much safer to be feared than loved. Being loved consistently by others is very risky. It requires continuous devotion and affection which is not easy. Hence, one should rely on fear that one creates in the mind of others. But care should be taken that fear is not taken to the extent of being hated as it will produce just the opposite. If you can’t win love, avoid the hatred.
- Use Force Ruthlessly – Be inspiring in the use of force. Use brutal force with intelligence but avoid the senseless use of force. Enforce your will without any respect for the suffering of others.
- Act s a Fox and Lion – There are two ways of setting the disputes; one is by law and other is by force. Law corrects men but force corrects beasts. But force should be used by acting as brave as lion and as cunning as a fox. If you don’t play this game then you will be victim of the same tactic from your enemy.
- Use Persuasion Artfully – Use propaganda and religion for lulling the people into peace and submission. Roman policy was nicely furthered by skillfully playing upon the religious feelings of the people.
- Act Decisively – Avoid hesitation in implementing the decision. Uncertainty will leads only to ruination. Be certain and be assertive.
