In The Prince, Machiavelli advises rulers to

(1) support the arts

(2) be ruthless in achieving goals

(3) learn poetry music, and sports

(4) learn courtly manners

The correct answer is 2. be ruthless in achieving goals

According to Machiavelli, that is the only way a ruler can ensure that his reign will be long and secure. If people are scared of him they are less likely to betray him than if he's good to them.