The 48 Laws of Power Paperback – September 1, 2000

"The 48 Laws of Power" is an extraordinary read that offers profound insights into human behavior and the dynamics of power. Robert Greene's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, presenting each law with historical examples that illustrate their relevance.This book has not only changed my perspective on social interactions but has also equipped me with practical strategies for navigating various situations. The laws are well-structured, making it easy to understand and reflect on their applications in everyday life. Whether you're looking to enhance your career, improve your relationships, or simply gain a deeper understanding of power dynamics, this book is an invaluable resource. Highly recommended for anyone interested in personal development and strategic thinking!

The media could not be loaded. The 48 Laws of Power is not just a book—it’s an education in human behavior, strategy, and the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways power moves through the world. Whether you're in business, leadership, or just want to better understand social dynamics, this book is a must-read.Each law is packed with historical examples, sharp analysis, and real-world relevance. I found myself highlighting entire sections and reflecting on how these principles show up in everyday life. Some laws may feel controversial or even ruthless, but that’s the point—Greene doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of power.It’s not a book you read once and forget. It’s something you return to over time as your experiences deepen. The writing is compelling, the layout is well-organized, and it really challenges the way you think about influence, relationships, and ambition.Whether you're looking to gain an edge in your career or simply want to sharpen your understanding of how power works—this book delivers. Highly recommend!

This is a great book. I've been reading it for myself and to my kid. He isn't necessarily old enough to worry about leading an army, seducing a French noble girl, or pleasing the Emperor of China, but the lessons in this book are worth learning. I fear this book probably gets a bad rap as a cynical, Machiavellian practical manual for being a bad guy, but the lessons in this book do apply to nearly all aspects of your life, even if you find some of the approaches and reasoning objectionable. It's better to learn these rules from others' experiences, rather than your own blunders. One thing I love about this book is the historical examples used to justify the rules. The author pulls from all over the world's cultures to show you how politicians, business men, military commanders, politicians, and royals played the game of power. It helps bring history to life and makes historical figures more approachable. The sections on P.T. Barnum, for instance, made me laugh at his audacious showmanship. The sections on Louis the XIV brought him to life as more than just some old French guy with a cane and a blue cape lined with ermine (the Hyacinthe Rigaud portrait). The proverbs and anecdotes and quotes sprinkled throughout the margins also add another layer of context to the book. I like seeing how these rules are essentially universal to the human experience and they're found in Aesop and African proverbs and Chinese anecdotes and Shakespeare, etc.I believe everyone ought to read this book, even if you don't personally like the lessons it contains. Additionally, I recommend getting the hardcover version. For me, this book is one I'll be proudly adding to my library for re-reading and I like the larger format the hardcover version offers.

This book is great just to know what you’re getting yourself into when you begin to read this book because it will definitely make you feel evil. It says if you opened up Pandora’s box of reality.. gives you great historical examples for each law and practical ways to execute each law given empires could be built on a book like this

Great book I’ve read it over and over and have implemented many of the laws through run career and personal development, decided to finally get my own copy & it came damaged :( it’s just the back cover so no biggie but if I’m buying something “new” I expect new

It is an interesting read and it provides some amazing insite to the way the world works and the way you, and other people act. Definitely a slow read, take time to comprehend it, highlight or write down parts that stick out to you.

The 48 Laws of Power is a powerful and insightful book that offers a deep look into strategy, influence, and human behavior. Each law is backed by historical examples that make the content both educational and engaging. Whether you agree with all of it or not, it challenges you to think critically about power dynamics in everyday life. A must-read for anyone interested in personal growth or leadership.