• The 48 Laws of Power

  • By: Robert Greene
  • Narrated by: Don Leslie
  • Length: 9 hrs and 52 mins
  • 4.4 out of 5 stars (6,113 ratings)

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The 48 Laws of Power

By: Robert Greene
Narrated by: Don Leslie
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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

What listeners say about The 48 Laws of Power

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We All Have A Lot More Power Than We Realize!

When I first read this book a couple years ago, it was so apropos for were I was in my life as I was going through a career change myself. The book helped me to realize that harboring deep inside of me, was a lot of untapped potential and power that I've yet to utilize. Ever since then, I've made it a point to implement as many of the 48 Laws of Power into my daily life as I possibly can. If nothing else, this book is a great "get off first base and start rounding the bases" book for anyone who feels that their life could use a little bit of a kickstart.

I thought that the author, Robert Greene, kept the book on track, simple, easy to follow and matter of factual. Anyone who's willing to implement even 5 or 10 (you'll quickly find that The Laws naturally flow into each other and build upon each other) of these Laws of Power into their lives, won't be able to help themselves from making better decisions, and taking more control over their lives. Yet, at the same time, living a very fulfilling existence as we all ought to do.

I highly recommend this book as a great reference tool for your "toolbox kit of life"!

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53 people found this helpful

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History + Advice.

I like this book for its excellent story telling and useful strategies. This book is a great read.

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Brilliant. Captivating Narration. A must have!

Greene is genius-- thorough, insightful and captivating. Leslie is a treat to the ears. Together, this audiobook is a delight.

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dramatic yet essential lessons in acquiring power

Any additional comments?

This one isn't old at all, but most of the example stories are from hundreds of years ago. This is another LONG book that I would recommend more as background listening. It's not as dense with advice as that Carnegie book, but the 48 lessons contained are fucking timeless. THERE IS A REASON 50 Cent praises and uses this book and collaborated with the author. A funny thing about this one is the way it's delivered. They talk about "Power" non stop. And it's true that in one way or another we are all accumulating power in some form or another as we progress. But the way the fucking author reads the book sometimes is so overdramatic, it makes you feel like you are doing something sinister by listening to the message. Don't let the over dramatic delivery deter you. Each Law is exercised by many, many very successful people when they are out doing business, making moves. (delivery style: very strong yet overly dramatic) ★★★

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how to be a better sociopath, or become one

What made the experience of listening to The 48 Laws of Power the most enjoyable?

fascinating, in all the gory details.

Would you recommend The 48 Laws of Power to your friends? Why or why not?

no. It would make them sick.

Which scene was your favorite?

they're all rather horrific.

What’s the most interesting tidbit you’ve picked up from this book?

I was rather shocked to see that sociopathy is more common than suspected, is an ancient art-form of predation, and scorns those with conscience as marks and fools.It teaches the rest of us to recognize and understand it better.

Unfortunately, it's an excellent primer for sociopaths that want to up their game. And teaches aspiring sociopaths everything they need to know.

Any additional comments?

Keep the antacids handy and learn like your life depends on it. Because it might.

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great book

great read open my mind to power and understanding people. I like all the facts and recognition they give to the laws.

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indelible

Is an incredible insight into the realm of power. Endless in possibilities, listen for sheer entertainment or strategy.

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Must Read for An Evil Mastermind

I loved it!

this would be a great SOP for a young villain just starting out!

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Amazing,Educational,and Disturbing

I consider this one of the greatest audio books I've ever listened to. It has a dark sense of humor but it teaches you about human nature and people's motivation. The narrator has excellent voice want voice and the author Robert Green delivers his message in a way that entertaining and insightful. These laws are more like maxims that can be used to help you protect yourself from being manipulated. But they can also help you learn how to influence other people and gain some power in this world.

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Is It For You?

Only for those who are ready for it, will this book be enlightening. All chapter may not apply to your person. As you listen I advise you to book mark the the parts that peaks your interest. Boss literature in deed!

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