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Self-Help
The 48 Laws of Power
By Robert Greene
Penguin
Description
Amoral, cunning, ruthless, and instructive, this multi-million-copy New York Times bestseller is the definitive manual for anyone interested in gaining, observing, or defending against ultimate control – from the author of The Laws of Human Nature.
In the book that People magazine proclaimed “beguiling” and “fascinating,” Robert Greene and Joost Elffers have distilled three thousand years of the history of power into 48 essential laws by drawing from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz and also from the lives of figures ranging from Henry Kissinger to P.T. Barnum.
Some laws teach the need for prudence (“Law 1: Never Outshine the Master”), others teach the value of confidence (“Law 28: Enter Action with Boldness”), and many recommend absolute self-preservation (“Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally”). Every law, though, has one thing in common: an interest in total domination. In a bold and arresting two-color package, The 48 Laws of Power is ideal whether your aim is conquest, self-defense, or simply to understand the rules of the game.
In the book that People magazine proclaimed “beguiling” and “fascinating,” Robert Greene and Joost Elffers have distilled three thousand years of the history of power into 48 essential laws by drawing from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz and also from the lives of figures ranging from Henry Kissinger to P.T. Barnum.
Some laws teach the need for prudence (“Law 1: Never Outshine the Master”), others teach the value of confidence (“Law 28: Enter Action with Boldness”), and many recommend absolute self-preservation (“Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally”). Every law, though, has one thing in common: an interest in total domination. In a bold and arresting two-color package, The 48 Laws of Power is ideal whether your aim is conquest, self-defense, or simply to understand the rules of the game.
Summary by AI
The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Author's Background:
- Robert Greene is an American author and strategist known for his books on power and strategy.
Main Theme:
- The book provides a comprehensive guide to acquiring and maintaining power in various social and political contexts.
Key Points:
- Law 1: Never Outshine the Master: Avoid drawing attention to yourself that could threaten your superior's position.
- Law 2: Never Put Too Much Trust in Friends; Learn How to Use Enemies: Use enemies to your advantage by keeping them close and exploiting their weaknesses.
- Law 3: Conceal Your Intentions: Keep your plans and goals secret to avoid opposition and gain an element of surprise.
- Law 4: Always Say Less Than Necessary: Control the flow of information to maintain an air of mystery and power.
- Law 5: So Much Depends on Reputation - Guard It with Your Life: Build and protect your reputation as a formidable force.
- Law 6: Court Attention at All Cost: Draw attention to yourself in a calculated way to establish your presence and influence.
- Law 7: Get Others to Do the Work for You, but Always Take the Credit: Delegate tasks to others while claiming the rewards for yourself.
- Law 8: Make Other People Come to You - Use Bait if Necessary: Position yourself as the center of attention and control the interactions.
- Law 9: Win Through Your Actions, Never Through Argument: Demonstrate your power through decisive actions rather than engaging in debates.
- Law 10: Infection: Avoid the Unhappy and Unlucky: Surround yourself with positive and successful people to enhance your own well-being.
Reputation:
- Positive:
- Widely acclaimed as a classic guide to power dynamics.
- Provides valuable insights into human nature and the pursuit of influence.
- Negative:
- Some critics argue that the book promotes Machiavellian tactics and encourages unethical behavior.
- Can be seen as cynical and manipulative.
Who Should Read It:
- Individuals interested in power dynamics and strategy.
- Leaders, managers, and anyone seeking to improve their influence.
- Readers who enjoy historical and philosophical perspectives on power.
Readers
3
