"The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him"

Niccolo Machiavelli's quote suggests that the best way to judge the intelligence of a leader is to observe the people they have actually chosen to surround themselves with. This suggests that a leader's intelligence can be judged by the high quality of individuals they have selected to advise them. It suggests that a leader that has actually selected smart and seasoned consultants is likely to be more intelligent than one that has picked advisors that are unskilled or absence expertise. This quote likewise indicates that a leader's knowledge is not always determined by their very own knowledge as well as experience, however by the understanding and experience of those they have selected to surround themselves with. This quote is a reminder that a leader's intelligence is not only figured out by their very own capacities, but likewise by the capabilities of those they have chosen to suggest them.