The Laws of Power

Robert Greene. What can I say? I’m a fan of his work.

I’ve read four of his books, including the recent one about 50 cent, and listened to a few talks. I want to give an overview of the way his mentality and his way of looking at the world has affected me.

Some of his books are in the history section, some self-help and some in business management. I enjoy them because of the taboo factor; he writes thoroughly on subjects that occur in reality, but are rarely discussed, whether you buy-in or not. Guarding your reputation, winning through actions or subtly using seduction are examples that are a part of being human. The depth and strategy of these things are usually kept inside.

Standing on the shoulders of giants…-Sir Isaac Newton

…is one way to sum up the underlying theme of this reading material. Making choices built on the achievements of others. I would guess many historians look at the world like this too. Not being one of those by nature, this was very eye opening. Once it’s accepted that the human condition in general, has not changed much since the beginning time, obvious patterns arise. Why not learn from their mistakes?

Putting into practice

Initially, when reading something that inspires me, I get a buzz. Like watching a really good movie. The length of the buzz, depends on how good it is. I got that. I didn’t start to put the Laws of Power or Strategies of War directly into practice however. I felt like G.I.Joe. Having the knowledge empowered me. No, better…it gave me a layer of confidence. To get all metaphorical on you, I found that I use what I learned more defensively. Small changes like; understanding my boss’s body language, let me out of the dark a little.

Cognitive Dissonance

The works are unmoral. They aim at a goal, not what is right or wrong. The foundation of certain sections are very much against my outdoors-loving, music appreciating, arty soul. The truth in the books fight against me. I believe it a healthy war. It depends on the reader of course. This genre of intelligence can be used for good or evil. It’s for the ones who intend to make a mark in the history books.