48 Laws of Power

by Robert Greene
48 Laws of Power cover
Good Books rating 2.38
Technical
  • ID: 82
  • Added: 2025-09-02
  • Updated: 2025-09-02
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-09-17
harsh 0.00

The reviewer found 'The 48 Laws of Power' to be a deeply flawed and manipulative book, filled with toxic advice that promotes deceit, manipulation, and cruelty. They argue that the book's strategies are not only unethical but also counterproductive for building meaningful relationships and personal happiness.

The reviewer had a very negative experience with 'The 48 Laws of Power,' describing it as a 'treasure map to hell' and a 'puffed-up bible for psychopaths.' They found the book's advice to be deeply cynical and manipulative, promoting toxic relationships and unethical behavior. The reviewer highlights several laws that they found particularly disturbing, such as advising readers to crush their enemies totally, use friends as scapegoats, and create cult-like followings. They argue that the book's strategies are not only unethical but also counterproductive for building meaningful relationships and personal happiness. The reviewer also criticizes the book's structure and content, noting that the stories repeat themselves and the chapters are unnecessarily long.

Quick quotes

    The book is trying to appear powerful by presenting itself as heavy and valuable to cover up for the fluff inside.

    The density of cynicism in this passage is uncanny. It’s one thing to assume your superior ruthlessly slaughtered his way to the top. But advising to capitalize on people’s weaknesses is a whole new level of indecency.

    The world we live in already provides plenty of cruelties and inequalities. But here we find a radical argument against mercy and compassion. Is that really what we need?

northeastbylines.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-09-17
insightful 4.50

The reviewer finds '48 Laws of Power' by Robert Greene to be a compelling and insightful book that offers timeless strategies for navigating power dynamics. While some may find the content controversial, the reviewer appreciates its practical advice and historical examples.

The reviewer highly recommends '48 Laws of Power' for its profound insights into the dynamics of power and influence. They appreciate Greene's use of historical anecdotes to illustrate each law, making the book both engaging and educational. However, they acknowledge that some readers might find the content controversial or morally ambiguous. Overall, the reviewer believes the book provides valuable lessons that can be applied in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. They particularly admire Greene's ability to distill complex concepts into actionable advice, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding power dynamics.

Quick quotes

    The book is a treasure trove of wisdom for those who seek to understand and navigate the complexities of power.

    Greene's historical examples bring each law to life, making the book both informative and entertaining.

    While some may find the content controversial, the practical advice is invaluable for anyone looking to gain an edge in their personal or professional life.

reddit.com · Unknown · 2025-09-17
insightful 4.00

The reviewer finds '48 Laws of Power' insightful and practical, though they caution that the book's advice can be manipulative if misused. They appreciate its historical examples and psychological depth but warn against applying its principles unethically.

The reviewer highly recommends '48 Laws of Power' for its practical advice and historical examples, which they find both fascinating and instructive. They particularly appreciate the book's psychological depth and its ability to provide a nuanced understanding of power dynamics. However, they caution that the book's principles can be dangerous if used manipulatively and emphasize the importance of ethical considerations. Overall, they see the book as a valuable tool for understanding power but stress the need for responsible application.

Quick quotes

    The book is a treasure trove of historical examples and psychological insights.

    It's a powerful tool, but one that must be used with caution.

    The advice can be manipulative if taken out of context.

writeoutloudblog.com · Unknown · 2021-03-07
horrible 1.00

The reviewer finds the book well-written but morally questionable, advocating for manipulative and amoral behavior. They believe true power comes from being good and happy, not from the tactics described in the book.

The reviewer criticizes 'The 48 Laws of Power' for promoting amoral and manipulative behavior. They acknowledge the book is well-written but argue that it advocates for evil rather than describing reality. The reviewer expresses concern about the moral character of anyone who would follow the book's advice and believes true power comes from being good and happy, not from the tactics outlined in the book. They also question the practical success of living by these laws, suggesting that many might end up with no friends, no money, and no power.

Quick quotes

    The sad part is I think the author is just plain wrong. Sure, you can find powerful people who have engaged in the behaviors he espouses (I think it's hard to call them "laws") and have been successful, but how many people live life this way and merely end up in the gutter with no friends, no money, and no power?

    True power comes from being good, not to mention being happy, which is philosophically quite a bit more important than being powerful, although ultimately they are one and the same.

    I think this is a horrible book. Written well enough, sure, whatever, but just so very, very wrong, unless you have no morals.

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