The Prince

It has of late become a much-referred-to book for all competitive situations. His other works are worth reading or hearing, as well, especially his Art of War and Belfagor: The Devil Who Took a Wife.. Machiavelli's name is associated closely with his philosophy, as he well deserves. The Prince is considered the all-time best book on political strategy

Must read classical work David D. This has been on my "must read" list ever since one of those personality tests pegged me as Machiavellian. I've heard this explained as "win at all costs" or "the end justifies the means" but found The Prince to convey a different message. Maybe it was the translation, but Machiavelli is merely explaining the ratio. A book on 15th century statecraft with little application elsewhere. Machiavellian is a term oft associated with those persons who are ruthless in their pursuit of ascendancy in life. However, to extend Machiavelli's advice on how to be an effective statesman in the 15th century to modern times needs more than a little contrivance. "Machiavellian" can be substituted with a plethora . "Simple, but heavy, cutthroat cynicism" according to HH. "The Prince" is an important, albeit controversial, work that still holds popular appeal today. The book's concern is an individual's rise to power; a formidable discourse, explaining that abandoning one's morals and ethics is sometimes a necessity in order to reach the top. Sensitive readers will recognize, howeve