Appease is cheese.

One of the most powerful remedies a prince has against conspiracies is not to be hated by the masses.  This is, of course, much easier said than done.  But I think I disagree with this statement.  I would say the most powerful remedy would be truth.  Which I guess it could be argued truth would be making the masses content, but it is not necessarily the case.  If the masses lose trust in their leader revolt is soon to follow.  

For example, take our own nation's politics.  Granted the differences are clear one is elected, the other is hereditary, with the option of being over thrown.  While on the campaign trail future president's do nothing but make promises to "appease" the masses.  Truth is seared at best during this time of campaigning.  The masses may be appeased, but when that appeasement is taken to the point of non truth, then the masses become discontent leading to possible revolt, or in our case approval rating soaring to the depths of sheol.  Truth is the most important thing for princes to hold by, not necessarily pure appeasement for all his peoples.