It is interesting to point out that the Athenians start out by leaving justice out of the argument because they say they are not equal because they are much more powerful than the Melians and that justice is only power between equals (1). They leave justice out because they know they would lose the argument of justice against the Melians. They selfishly state that it is only good for themselves that they conquer the city but keep it intact (2). Furthermore, they say it is to their benefit if they give in even though the Athenians would benefit from it the most (2). However, they explicitly demonstrate the Machiavellian principle by appearing to benefit the Melians but not wanting to be friends because they seek it necessary to hate Melos to