This quote by Nicollo Machiavelli, when taken out of context*, has at least two possible interpretations:
1. Scientific and technological advancement lead progressively to doubt, sceptism and the liberation that comes from embracing atheism.
This is a reflection on God the Prison.
2. What theologists might call 'the pride of intellect' leads progressively to doubt, sceptism and the isolation that comes from rejecting salvation.
This is a reflection on God the Person.
Considering the philosophies for which Nicky M is best known, I can also profer a third:
3. The casting off of morality and compunction leads progressively to emancipation, wealth and the apotheosis that comes from seizing power.
This is a reflection on God the Parent.
I refer to apotheosis in an imperfect - almost Freudian - sense, of couse; I am sure that Machiavelli was quite the devote Christian (but see Rasputin's et al embrace of redemption *through* sin - or, rather, constant absolution thereof). Compare this to certain schools of Satanist thought that exalt Satan and the Serpent, exonerate Pilate and demonise a vindictive and selfish God. 3+1/2+2/5
*Does anyone know the context? It's not The Prince. | 
