Question

Therefore a prince, so long as he keeps his subjects united and loyal, ought not to mind the reproach of cruelty; because with a few examples he will be more merciful than those who, through too much mercy, allow disorders to arise, from which follow murders or robberies; for these are wont to injure the whole people, whilst those executions which originate with a prince offend the individual only.
–The Prince,
Niccolò Machiavelli

Which statement best summarizes the argument in the passage?

A cruel leader will prevent subjects from living in a place of crime and violence.
A cruel leader will cause subjects to commit crime and violence in rebellion.
A cruel leader will execute subjects who are guilty of committing crime and violence.
A cruel leader who is faced with crime and violence must unite subjects.

Answer 1

Answer:

A cruel leader will prevent subjects from living in a place of crime and violence.

Explanation:

In this excerpt, Niccolò Machiavelli tried to convey to readers that a good leader should act swiftly on any deterrent without him nursing the fear of reproâch or rebellion from his followers.

Thereby letting other followers know that such action will not be tolerated. In turn, the leader is setting a standard and ensuring that other followers desist from committing similar offenses, saving more lives, and preventing subjects from living in a place of crime and violence.