The 48 Laws of Power

By: Robert Greene

Narrated by: Don Leslie

Length: 9 hrs and 52 mins

Publisher's summary

Amoral, cunning, ruthless, and instructive, this piercing work distills 3,000 years of the history of power into 48 well-explicated laws. This bold volume outlines the laws of power in their unvarnished essence, synthesizing the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun-tzu, Carl von Clausewitz, and other great thinkers. Some laws teach the need for prudence ("Law 1: Never Outshine the Master") and the virtue of stealth ("Law 3: Conceal Your Intentions"); many demand the total absence of mercy ("Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally"). But like it or not, all have applications in real life. Illustrated through the tactics of Queen Elizabeth I, Henry Kissinger, P. T. Barnum, and other famous figures who have wielded, or been victimized by, power, these laws will fascinate any listener interested in gaining, observing, or defending against ultimate control.

Listen to the companion audiobook, The 33 Strategies of War.

©2000 Robert Greene and Joost Elffers (P)2007 HighBridge Company

Whatever.....

What three words best describe Don Leslie’s performance?

Condescending. Slow. Ummm....did I mention Condescending?

Any additional comments?

This book was entertaining in the way it was several historical vignettes, however I'm dubious of the accuracy of some facts. The lessons would contradict each other frequently. And if you follow these lessons, you will have no friends because you'd be a complete dick.

Incredible

What can i say that hasn't already been said...

I was walking through the books store and this one called me out. I flipped through it and realized how dark and sinister it seemed, yet i felt the draw to check it out.

When i got home and saw it was on Audible i got it.

Let me say this... If history class had been more like this book, i would have LOVED IT! A lot of great info and the narration adds to the enthrallment.

One thing is for sure, power takes commitment.

Great read, highly recommend.

amazed by my opportunity, scared of my new ability

After having learned so much I am amazed at the opportunities I have to put this new found knowledge into practice. That I am afraid at how well I will do.

Good book, well read

Well read -- the narrator reads it as if he understands it. If you understand what this book is about, it's extremely well done as a whole: core principles of how power is won, lost, or held, richly illustrated by historical examples. It's not a "grab power quick" kind of book, but more for those who would like to understand the larger stage of planning, plotting, and human emotion on which power struggles are carried out.

I liked it because it's accurate, from my 20+ year perspective in corporate American life, but also because the book brings motive and human nature into perspective, and not just the mechanics of power. And personally, I enjoy the format of presenting one historical observation and one historical transgression of each law: it gives a good context and clarifies what the author is saying.

Sounds like Satan is reading to me

Prety good stores. If you want a manual to duplicate all the power moves of all the historicly ruthles people of significance ever, you have found it.

Compelling and Accurate

This is arguably one of the key bibles of the practiced psychopath. A weaponizing tome to be both valued and feared. It is an interesting guide to deconstructing and understanding past personal triumphs and failures.

Alchemist

So many road unveiled now you know.
The story with the Couple. Be humble share your success

Worth it if only for thr style!

Would you try another book from Robert Greene and/or Don Leslie?

Yes!

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

The ending!? This is a collection of parables, not a fictional story...

Which scene was your favorite?

Louis XIV getting rid of Nicolas Fouquet.

Could you see The 48 Laws of Power being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

maybe a TV show, but it would have to be on PBS

Any additional comments?

The "laws" he mentions are over-broad, generalized, and very contradictory.

The style is very pompous, but I liked that aspect of it, ironically.

However, in terms of the historical accuracy of this author's analyses, I would say he's very much trying to push square pegs into round holes...

The Power in 48 Laws

This audiobook was very good. I always read paperback and decided to go audio and it was well worth it. 48 Laws of Power is filled with useful information, tactics, anecdotal evidence and historical references to support each law.

Definitely worth it.

great breakdown

love the break down and explanation of the laws and how to apply them in a real study guide format.The title is misleading because it confuses power with the art of deception.