Governments have had too much sagacity; people too little.
Governments are skillful.

They act methodically, consecutively, on a well concerted plan, which is constantly improved by tradition and experience.

They study men and their passions.

If they perceive, for instance, that they have warlike instincts, they incite and inflame this fatal propensity.

They surround the nation with dangers through the conduct of diplomats, and then naturally ask for soldiers, sailors, arsenals and fortifications.