“There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things.”Niccolò Machiavelli · Principele · 1532 · Capitolul VI
Initiating a new order is the most difficult, dangerous, and uncertain of all undertakings.
Machiavelli highlights the inherent obstacles of innovation. Opponents of the old order fight passionately, while potential supporters of the new system are cautious and hold back until they see proof of success. An entrepreneur launching a revolutionary product faces market skepticism and attacks from established competitors.
Machiavelli warns that opposition to change comes not only from fear but also from self-interest. Those who profit from the old order fight with all their resources to keep it. For instance, when a city bans cars from the center, shopkeepers who fear losing customers protest loudly, while pedestrians who would benefit remain silent and disorganized. This imbalance between the strength of opponents and the weakness of supporters makes any reform nearly impossible without determined power.
Why it matters It mentally prepares us for the real difficulties of any new initiative and encourages us not to underestimate resistance to change.