The Prince

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…human nature, and the ability to seek these out, to understand human nature and bend it to your will that is the key to maintaining a kingdom. People are generally self-interested, although their affection for others can be won and lost. They are content and happy; so long they are not victims of something terrible. They may be trustworthy in prosperous times, but they will quickly turn selfish, deceitful, and profit-driven in times of adversity.