Idea Ripper // ArchiveCards: 1555 [Live] | Updated: 2026-10-14
Card #c122IR // #c122Synthesis

Every one sees what you appear to be, few really know what you are, and those few dare not oppose themselves to the opinion of the many, who have the majesty of the state to defend them; and in the actions of all men, and especially of princes, which it is not prudent to challenge, one judges by the result.

— In our words · Source: The Prince (Niccolò Machiavelli)

[Use when]

When a winner’s methods go unexamined.

[Why it matters]

The many see the surface and the few who see through it dare not contradict the many — outcomes launder methods.

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