Question

Machiavelli claims that “it is much safer to be feared than loved.” Which type of evidence does Machiavelli use to support his claim?

Answer 1

Machiavelli supports that claim mainly with observational and historical evidence — inductive reasoning from examples of past rulers and a generalized description of human nature. In The Prince he cites historical case-studies and practical instances (and argues from “experience”) to show that people are fickle and self‑interested, so love is unreliable while fear (rooted in a ruler’s ability to punish) is more controllable and dependable.