Machiavelli argued that a prince must maintain power by whatever means is necessary. He cautioned that a prince must be wise in his appointment of ministers and advisors. Machiavelli also stated that the prince study the art of war and take control of the military forces.
According to Machiavelli a prince, in order to keep power, must be ruthless and calculating. He advised the ruler that it is better to be feared than loved, and kindness should only be used when suiting his purposes. Machiavelli´s "The Prince" is considered a treaty of how to get to, and stay at, power.
