How Flatterers Should Be Avoided Treatise?

Summary — Chapter XXIII: How to Avoid Flatterers
A prince should allow only wise advisers to speak with him, and only when he specifically requests their advice. A prince should not listen to anyone else and should be firm in his decisions. Vacillation will lead to a loss of respect. A prince must always seek advice.

What does Machiavelli say about flatterers?

Although the epithet says 'flattery will get you nowhere,' Machiavelli disagrees. He warns that flattery will get the flatterer everything, if the ruler can be deceived by it. It's a short step from falling for their blandishments to supporting their initiatives or approving their budgets.

What is the main point of Machiavelli The Prince?

The general theme of The Prince is of accepting that the aims of princes – such as glory and survival – can justify the use of immoral means to achieve those ends. From Machiavelli's correspondence, a version appears to have been distributed in 1513, using a Latin title, De Principatibus (Of Principalities).

Sophia Al-Mansoor

Sophia Al-Mansoor

Global Business & E-Commerce Reporter

Sophia analyzes international trade, startup ecosystems, retail transformation, and supply chain logistics for modern digital publications.