Machiavelli brings up the question of whether it is better to be feared than loved. As far as being a leader I think it is more effective to be loved. In order to become a leader one must appear charismatic, at least today it seems that way. When I think of effective leaders the first people that come to mind are those that had total control over their citizens or subordinates. Even if those leaders had immoral intentions, they were able to gain the support of the masses most likely only engaging the fear tactic after they had won the hearts of the people. Hitler was initially able to rise to power because he made promises to the German people when they were extremely vulnerable. He was able to provide protection to those that became Nazis. At first he proved a loved leader, once he decided to implement his plan he used his massive power to strike fear in the people. One man alone can not create fear among a whole continent, it takes an army, which can only be obtained voluntarily.
He says that a beloved leader will not be conspired against, but history has proven that incorrect. For example JFK was an extremely popular president, but there were those that conspired against him. His point that extremely hated leaders must be fearful of everyone and everything is true. This can be seen with the current unrest in the Middle East. Eventually even the most oppressed people will rise against the leadership.
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