Restoring Balance, Not Power: A Métis Vision Against Machiavellian Leadership

“And it ought to be remembered that 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, because the innovator has for enemies all those who have done well under the old conditions, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new” - Machiavelli "The Prince"

“No task is more dangerous than creating a new order, because the innovator will encounter enemies among those who benefited from the old system and only tepid support from those uncertain of the new.” According to Machiavelli, leadership requires cunning, control, and a tolerance for isolation; the reformer must stand apart, mastering the art of survival due to distrust.

A stark contrast is provided by a Métis perspective. According to Métis tradition, change is fostered via relationships and reciprocity rather than being imposed from above. Through conversation, narratives, and group decision-making, the leader restores equilibrium rather than acting as a lone prince. The Métis leader finds strength in wahkohtowin, the idea of kinship and shared responsibility among all living things, whereas Machiavelli's ruler acts out of human fear and self-interest.

Innovation is not the creation of something new but rather the recall of past realities that once held the community together.