48 laws of power review new york times

The "48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene is a self-help book that explores the strategies and tactics used by powerful individuals throughout history to achieve and maintain their power. The book is based on Greene's research into the lives of famous and influential people, including politicians, business leaders, and artists.

Here is a review of the book from The New York Times:

"The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene

Review by: Michiko Kakutani

Published: October 2000

In "The 48 Laws of Power," Robert Greene sets out to provide a comprehensive guide to the art of power, drawing on a wide range of historical and contemporary examples to illustrate his principles. The book is divided into 48 laws, each of which is accompanied by a brief explanation and a series of anecdotes and examples.

Greene's approach is both fascinating and unsettling. He argues that power is not just about achieving a goal, but about maintaining and defending one's position, often through ruthless and cunning means. He identifies a range of strategies that powerful individuals use to achieve their goals, including manipulation, deception, and intimidation.

Some of the laws are straightforward and intuitive, such as "Conceal Your Intentions" and "Play on People's Need to Believe." Others are more surprising, such as "Pretend to be Weak, Then Strike" and "Use the Surrender Tactic."

Greene's writing is engaging and accessible, and he has a talent for finding interesting and unexpected examples to illustrate his points. He draws on a wide range of sources, from ancient Greek and Roman history to modern-day business and politics.

However, some readers may find the book's focus on power and manipulation to be off-putting. Greene's emphasis on the importance of ruthlessness and cunning may be seen as morally questionable, and some may argue that his approach is too focused on individual achievement and not enough on the greater good.

Overall, "The 48 Laws of Power" is a thought-provoking and engaging book that provides a unique perspective on the art of power. While it may not be to everyone's taste, it is certainly a book that will make readers think about the ways in which power is exercised and maintained.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Recommendation: This book is recommended for anyone interested in power, politics, and strategy. It is particularly useful for business leaders, politicians, and anyone looking to improve their negotiation and communication skills. However, readers who are sensitive to discussions of manipulation and ruthlessness may want to approach the book with caution.