The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene Full Review + Summary and Quotes

Book Summary

The 48 Laws of Power is a prominent book by Robert Greene that teaches how to gain power with various strategies. This book is based on the author's research on the lives of the powerful individuals and the policies they have made in their victories and defeats. Gaining power and mastering the conditions in completely different environments and times is a skill that, without a doubt, the famous people of history have benefited from and have been able to gain a place and a name for themselves. The 48 Laws of Power, which has achieved tremendous sales so far, has been experienced by its authors and publishers, for the first time in 1998, it was presented to the audience and this is how it has introduced itself to the world that by implementing these 48 principles, human beings can achieve unmatched power in all areas of their life.

The value of the mentioned work is multiplied by knowing that it is the result of 20 years of research of its component, so that the reader can better understand how strong the foundations of this information source are. Apart from being a hard worker, the author tells the readers in a very intelligent way by using the life lessons of historical figures such as Nicola Machiavelli, Henry Kissinger, Queen Elizabeth I and a number of others, why these characters were able to change their destiny, but others They have not benefited from reaching power.

Robert Greene's simple language fascinates you so much that it becomes very easy and understandable for you to find out secrets such as understanding power as a social game and the importance of knowing people in order to exercise power over them. Seizing power has its own rules, among which is the art of indirect action, that is, observing the stratum you want to gain power against and of course dominate them, just by following the rules that Greene with 48 mentioned items states that it is attainable and disobeying them means moving away from opportunities.

It is very necessary to point out here that in different situations, you should implement the desired principles according to those conditions, which requires, after reading the book completely, to reflect on its lessons so that you can first Imagine and recreate diverse moments for yourself and then decide how and in what ways to take action and realize what is in the back of your mind.

About the Author

Robert Greene is an American writer who has worked in other jobs, including translation and editing. He was born on May 14, 1959, studied at Berkeley University of California and grew up in Los Angeles. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he decided to pursue writing more seriously in 1995. In addition to the 48 laws of power, he has 5 other books, including 33 war strategies and the 50th law, in which he has expressed his practical ideas.

Who Should Read the Book?

People who,in despite of their very high ability and the efforts they have made so far, have not yet been able to reach their true position for various reasons, especially if they have always had fairness and conscience at the forefront of their work, without a doubt, reading this book and its application Interactions are needed. Now these people can be artists, politicians, senior managers of organizations, athletes, etc, who want to gain power and popularity in a part of society, and one of their goals is to impress others with their power and abilities

The fully educational book 48 Laws of Power, after a background, is categorized into seven main sections, which are sub-categories, 48 chapters dedicated to 48 laws. In the initial background, it is said how to use the power-seeking secrets of previous celebrities to make others conquer their power and influence, and the next seven sections have these titles:

Part 1: Never show off your intelligence to your boss.
Part 2: Get credit for yourself from other people's work and keep it.
Part 3: gain power by making friends and getting to know others.
Part 4: Be unpredictable to win a competition.
Part 5: To defeat a strong opponent, submit to him.
Part 6: If you are powerful, don't pretend that you are on the same level as others.
Part 7: Seduce your opponent without using coercion.

Book Quotes

The value of money is not in having it, but in using it.

If you want to tell lies that will be believed, you should not tell the truth that is hard to believe.

Humans are so short-minded and controlled by their immediate needs that a deceiving person will always find many people to deceive.

Lord, protect me from my friends, I myself take care of my enemies.

Being too present is not much different from being talkative, it also destroys that mysterious state and makes you seem too ordinary. This basic economic law, the law of supply and demand, reduces the abundance of the price and scarcity increases it.

Credibility is the cornerstone of power and like a mine full of diamonds and rubies, as long as you own it, you have the resources to control everyone, but since everyone knows this, be prepared to deal with thieves and bandits on a daily basis.

Don't let anyone see what you're doing, be falsely honest, show misleading goals to others, and keep your poker face on.

So, in the long run, you can see its benefits, when I say this sentence while competing.

Introduction:
Today’s world is full of individuals who will lie, cheat, and steal to take the clothes off your back. They will go to any length to manipulate you or others around you, twisting the truth and bending others to their every whim. Undoubtedly, ‘you’ who is drawn to this book, have experienced the misfortune of being victimized by one of these individuals.

Perhaps you have thought to yourself...
“They’re always 2 steps ahead!”
“Somehow, they made ‘me’ look like the bad guy!”
“Eventually they’re going to get fired for this!”

You always find yourself playing defense, you never know what they’re going to do next, and you simply cannot understand why another person would be so horrible.

Take your power back – Read this book!

“What is good? All that heightens the feeling of power in man…” - Nietzsche, Friedrich. The Antichrist. 1888.

Synopsis:
The 48 Laws of Power is a book comprised of tactics, concepts, and lessons which successfully created or maintained power. Supported with stories from history, both modern and ancient, from the most powerful people and empires which have ever existed, each chapter is crammed page to page with value. For 430 pages you will be inundated with information which is crucial for all of life’s situations where power plays a dynamic (work, social hierarchies, politics, etc.). Written with “the old aristocratic courts” as the backdrop and Machiavelli to set the scenery, this book contends with our darkest inner thoughts during our least favorite interactions with those who have more power than us.

Things I love:
Writing – The writing is very casual so that it is available to the widest possible audience. It can be read easily, flowing almost as smoothly as regular conversation. You will not be left wondering what a word meant or stopping yourself to grab a dictionary.

Printing – This book has some extremely creative printing, placing supporting stories, poems, proverbs and more in the margin and printing “images” using text at the end of each law for visualizing a concept. I have not seen anything similar in a formal book like this.

Information – Clearly all 48 Laws took an extremely long time to compile and write. You simply cannot comb the annals of history for compelling stories, retelling them concisely, in a brief period of time. This book is a labor of love, and it shows in every chapter.

Originality – This book comes off as very genuine and creative. Everything about it from the cover, the red text inside, the formatting, it’s all unique. You can tell a lot of thought put forth to conceptualize this work.

Who Should Listen Instead of Read:
Relevant to everyone, “The 48 Laws of Power” is excellent, however I believe there are a few people who would not enjoy their time reading this book.
- If you do not enjoy reading or learning history, this book will be difficult for you. The main content of the text consists of historical examples. The book is of medium length at 430 pages, so if this sounds like you, consider switching to audio.
- As mentioned above the text is 430 pages, so if you simply do not have the time in your day to dedicate to reading, you will spend a long time on this book. Again, in this instance I recommend switching to audio for efficiency.

Note: My product images were taken after reading the entire book over many months. The book was flawless when first received.

"The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene is a compelling and thought-provoking book that delves into the dynamics of power and influence in various aspects of life. Heres my review:

Robert Greenes "The 48 Laws of Power" is a fascinating exploration of the strategies, tactics, and principles that underlie the acquisition and maintenance of power. Drawing from historical examples, anecdotes, and timeless wisdom, Greene presents 48 laws that illuminate the intricate dynamics of power dynamics in relationships, politics, business, and personal interactions.

One of the strengths of the book is its rich and diverse range of historical and contemporary examples, which illustrate each law in action. Greenes storytelling prowess brings these laws to life, making them relatable and memorable for readers. Additionally, the concise and accessible writing style makes the book engaging and easy to digest, despite its dense subject matter.

Each law is accompanied by practical insights and advice on how to apply it in various contexts, whether in navigating office politics, negotiating deals, or managing interpersonal relationships. While some laws may seem Machiavellian or morally ambiguous, Greene emphasizes the importance of understanding power dynamics for both self-protection and achieving ones goals.

However, its essential for readers to approach the book with critical thinking and discernment, as blindly adhering to the laws without considering ethical implications can lead to harmful outcomes. Greene himself acknowledges the potential for misuse of power and encourages readers to use the laws responsibly and ethically.

Overall, "The 48 Laws of Power" is a compelling and illuminating read that offers valuable insights into human behavior, social dynamics, and the nature of power. Whether youre a business leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or curious individual seeking to understand the world of power and influence, this book provides a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to ponder and apply in your own life.

I highly recommend "The 48 Laws of Power" to anyone interested in psychology, sociology, leadership, or personal development. Its a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers worldwide, offering timeless lessons on navigating the complexities of power in todays world.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene. This book offers a thought-provoking analysis of power dynamics and how to navigate them effectively in various aspects of life. Greenes writing is engaging and his examples are both captivating and informative.

I appreciated the depth of research and historical references included in the book, which added credibility to the principles outlined. While some of the laws may seem Machiavellian in nature, they offer valuable insights into understanding human behaviour and manipulation tactics.

Overall, "The 48 Laws of Power" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their understanding of power dynamics and develop strategies for achieving success. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in personal or professional development.

For those who consider "The 48 Laws of Power" an ominous guide, they are perceiving it through a misguided lens. This book serves as an essential tool, guiding individuals on how to protect themselves against the perilous influence of negative, deceitful, and potentially harmful individuals. The books structure is ingeniously designed, with each law being accompanied by real historical anecdotes of transgressions or observances. These tales are nothing short of gripping and immersive, often featuring infamous leaders and influencers. Additionally, the author meticulously presents an interpretation, providing a profound understanding of each law, which is further enriched by revisiting the accompanying story. The book culminates with an impactful image, a distinguished authoritys quote, and a decisive reversal, altogether reinforcing the reasons that validate the adherence to these laws. After reading, it is pertinent to meticulously reflect on personal experiences, offering a vital source for wisdom and resilience, as this book is not to be taken lightly. Reflection and prudence are paramount to the application of these laws.

The purpose of reflection and caution is an essential component of mastering the insight offered by The 48 Laws of Power. Highlighting key words and impactful quotes not only solidifies their significance but also serves as a mental anchor in navigating various situations. It encourages a retrospective examination of personal experiences, intricately weaving the wisdom gleaned from these laws with ones own encounters. Furthermore, this reflection beckons the recognition of the responsibility that comes with wielding power judiciously. The book emphasizes the ardent need for delicacy and discernment when applying these laws, cautioning against reckless usage.

The power found within "The 48 Laws of Power" is not to be taken lightly. It certainly isnt a mere instructional guide to unleash upon the world. It serves as a stern warning, advising extreme caution. Each law demands careful consideration and offers a double-edged sword, capable of causing harm if misused. The books purpose is not to manipulate or control people at whim, but instead serves as a tool for protection against those who intend to harm. Readers are urged to learn from it, not to become overbearing but to become more insightful and prepared in navigating the often treacherous sea of human interaction. The reciprocity of its potential risks and benefits should be handled with the utmost discretion.

there seems to be a lot of love and hate surrounding this book, so if you are curious but unsure, this review should help you decide whether or not to buy the book, and how it will impact you

First, to understand the 48 laws of power, you must know two key ideas
1. you CAN NOT escape the power game. thinking you can "not participate" is as foolish as thinking that you could somehow escape gravity or make the sun stand still. Robert Greene explains why in the intro with some excellent examples
2. the 48 laws of power are neither good nor evil; they are just LAWS. If someone pushed a man off a cliff would you blame gravity for for his demise? This is the mindset you must adopt in order to learn a lot from this book.

Things I Liked
- NEW PARADIGM
after reading the 48 laws, you will never see the world the same way again. once you understand some of these laws you will see many underlying currents and motives you did not see before.
- INCREASES POWER
one of the main reasons to buy the book. you wil become exponentially more powerfull by knowing and understanding these laws
-CRYSTAL CLEAR
every law is clearly outlined with "transgression" of the law, "observance" of the law, keys to power, and a "reversal"
-GREAT STORIES
the 48 laws are packed with mindblowing and sometimes humorous stories of people in history practicing these laws. this is helpful as some of the concepts are quite abstract.

What I didnt like

-RISKY
an old proverb says " A man who plays with snakes will eventually be bitten". If you begin to use the 48 Laws improperly, you could get yourself in some dangerous situations, lose friends, piss off a lot a people, and destroy relationships
- REQUIRES DISCERNMENT
if you you are looking for a highly concrete book that the says "do xyz and you will accomplish vyx" look elsewhere. the Laws require good judgement and and and prospecting nature to practice and apply
-NOT FOR EVERYONE
If you are aghast at the idea of manipulation and deceit then read with caution.

OVERALL: If you want to have more power or a better understanding of why different situations turn out the the way they do, you should definitely read the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. If you want to be naive, easily manipulated, weak, you should ignore this book and go watch some netfilx.
Thanks for reading

Very, very well written. Easily the most informative and interesting book Ive ever read. I want to get a dozen more to give as gifts!

"The 48 Laws of Power" is an absolute masterclass in strategy, influence, and human behaviour. Robert Greene has meticulously crafted a compelling guide that draws from historical examples and timeless wisdom. Each law is presented with fascinating anecdotes, making the book both educational and highly engaging. Whether youre looking to navigate complex social dynamics or gain a deeper understanding of power structures, this book is indispensable. Its thought-provoking, insightful, and has genuinely transformed my perspective on power and influence. Highly recommended for anyone looking to master the art of strategic thinking and personal empowerment!

Good Stories and ways to live. You can either take it as it is or complain but these are simple laws that some have mixed feelings. Read each one as lessons to implement into your lives as positive or a negative way. Either way it’s all perspective for everyone. Believe it’s a good read to know even if your don’t plan on using these at least you know of them.

Alright, folks, if youre looking to become the puppet master of your own universe, then "48 Laws of Power" is your new best friend. This book is like a cheat sheet for Machiavelli himself. Every page turns you a little less into Mr. Nice Guy and a bit more into a strategic mastermind, or at least that’s the plan.

I mean, these laws aren’t just guidelines, theyre the ultimate playbook for power moves that would make even a Bond villain go, "Oh, thats a bit much, isn’t it?" Want to outshine your boss without getting fired? There’s a law for that. Plotting to take over the world? There’s probably sixteen laws for that.

But be warned, its not for the faint of heart. You might start reading as a harmless sheep and end up a sly fox with a side gig in manipulation. Use with caution, or you might just end up ruling everything around you. And remember, if you suddenly start having fewer friends, well, youre probably doing it right!

As a Black American spiritualist of integrity who respects Divine Universal Laws, I had a problem with, it seemed like, the European back stabbing, manipulative, colonial/Lynch concept of a lower conscious, even raciest concepts of conducting business. However, since the recommendation came from a highly respected source, I decided to give the book a chance and to tweak the precepts to meld with this new positive shift in conscious energy. The manipulative concepts in the book was totally unexpected to me. I know there is a higher way and I aim to find it and extrapolate what works and is good for my character; what is helpful, kind and compassionate for an advancing humane society.