The Prince - Niccolo Machiavelli

"It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both"

The Prince, is one of the most discussed political treatises in the world. It talks about the actions and methods a ruler must adopt in order to stay on his throne. Unlike various other works on the same topic, this book separates the practical aspect from the ethical ones. The author has no qualms advocating violence and treachery if the situation calls for it. Indeed, many of his recommendations seem cold hearted and calculating.
I like this book because of its brutal honesty. Machiavelli has no hesitations in calling a spade a spade. He creates a lot of scenarios which a ruler might face and proceeds to tackle each one of them. One might question his morality, but has to admire his understanding of statecraft.
Though the book was written two hundred years ago, its principles are just as true in the modern day world. Whether it be the employee looking for a promotion or the businessman seeking to outshine his competitors, Machiavelli's work can be adapted to a lot of situations. This book has inspired a whole genre of writing “The 48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene seems an apt example.

Reasons to read it: 

• Wish to know why you missed that promotion or why your employees hate you? Read this book and draw parallels between the world of then and now. The times may have changed, but the factors influencing human decisions have remained much the same.
• He talks about whether a Prince should be generous or parsimonious,cruel or merciful etc are.He talks about the importance of keeping up appearances.The topics would make an interesting read for any employer. 
• Again the discussion on prudence of a prince and the care he takes in selecting in staff, is important for those who wish to hire. 

Memorable Quotes:

“If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared.” 

“The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.” 

“…he who seeks to deceive will always find someone who will allow himself to be deceived.”  

“Never attempt to win by force what can be won by deception.”

This book has often been criticized for being immoral.However, it is also true that many of our present day management gurus seem to be influenced by it. I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in philosophy and management. Others can read its modern day adaptations, which discuss the same principles albeit in a toned down way.