‘It is better to be feared than loved’

Only when they are teenagers.

MawBe

It was about being a leader- not “ornery “ people like us.
There is a reason for the definition of the word “Machiavellian” !

Do hope you meant 'ordinary' and not 'ornery'. ?

I would hate to think anyone feared me but I'm sure nobody does.

No never. Fear is a primitive emotion, appropriate to engender a suitable response in a dangerous situation, not something I'd ever want as a response to me.

Never not even in a work situation, I hope I was an understanding manager
I would NEVER want anyone to be fearful of me can’t think of anything worse

I agree Kim19 and that was my target at work. But to acknowledge the OP’s quote I certainly didn’t expect or want a site full of builders, or an office to love me, so fear would be the closest. I was known as firm but fair.

It was about being a leader- not “ornery “ people like us.
There is a reason for the definition of the word “Machiavellian” !

Absolutely not.

Think I would prefer respect to fear.

It is good advice for people who have to get unquestioning and immediate obedience from others, such as first aid workers, surgeons, and army officers and NCOs when a situation is urgent.

I myself prefer to be loved, as most people do, but as stated upthread, in one’s job or sometimes in exceptional circumstances, the reverse is true.
People like Margaret Thatcher didn’t care if you loved her and that is a great help in politics or some professions. Caring too much can hold you back.
I believe in child rearing, there needs to be a speck of fear, only a speck, outweighed by great love as discipline cannot be imposed without it.

Same as Whitewave; only in my professional life. And not always, but it was sometimes necessary unfortunately.

I agree nanna8.

Never in any circumstances.

Yes, but only in my job, and the businesses and people iI investigated.