summary ofThe 48 Laws of PowerBook by Robert Greene, BA

first KEY POINT

Power requires a set of learned skills

Everyone wants and needs power. Lack of it makes people miserable. But we must keep a balance between being democratic and civilized and standing strong enough not to be crushed by others.The rules of the subtle power game will help you find that balance. Some think of these games as evil acts of taking advantage of others. While those people demonstrate a wish to avoid playing with power at all, they're the ones who are the most skillful players. They manipulate people by displaying weakness. Those truly weak will never let their powerlessness show.Robert Greene believes that the world is a game, and trying to avoid it will take power away from you. The laws discussed here will help you take control and use the power game to your advantage.One crucial skill you have to master is control over your emotions. This ability is essential to make reasonable and rational decisions. In the same vein, learn to stay objective while analyzing a situation. You must be willing to reflect on your past to prevent making the same mistakes.Keeping up appearances is also essential. Deception will hide your true intentions when needed.You can learn the mentioned skills and the ones we'll touch on below. After all, they don't come naturally to people.

Robert Greene compiled 48 laws based on writings as old as three thousand years. These laws share a simple premise: some actions will bring you power, and some will not. Whether you study all of them or pick and choose those relevant to you, these laws will give you a deep understanding of power and ways to acquire it.