#56 Manipulation Expert: Success Isn’t Luck, It’s Rigged | Robert Greene

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Apr 16, 2025

Robert Greene, best-selling author known for delving into strategy and human behavior, discusses the nuances of power and communication. He highlights the significance of observation and understanding ego in navigating workplace dynamics. Greene explores the delicate balance between fear and likability in relationships, and the transformative potential of storytelling. He also reflects on authenticity, cautioning against toxic influences, and emphasizes the role of resilience and creativity in overcoming adversity, offering profound insights into both personal and professional success.

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ANECDOTE

Outshining The Master Risks Push-out

Codie Sanchez was pushed out of firms twice for unintentionally outshining her bosses.
She learned feeding ego and politics is more vital than pure skill.

ANECDOTE

Fired For Excellence And Attitude

Robert Greene was fired despite outperforming others due to perceived disrespect.
Excellence alone doesn't protect you from political dynamics with bosses.

INSIGHT

History Reveals Timeless Power Laws

History offers patterns showing consistent truths about power and human nature.
Studying past powerful figures helps reveal timeless laws of power.

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The Prince

Niccolo Machiavelli

Written in the early 16th century, 'The Prince' is a realistic instruction guide for new rulers. Machiavelli argues that an effective leader must be skilled in the art of war, sometimes cruel, and willing to use deception and manipulation to achieve political goals. The book is divided into chapters that discuss various types of principalities, how to acquire and maintain power, and the qualities a prince should possess. Machiavelli uses historical examples, including the career of Cesare Borgia, to illustrate his points. The treatise emphasizes the importance of maintaining the goodwill of the people and the stability of the state, even if it means deviating from traditional virtues. 'The Prince' remains a controversial but influential work in modern political philosophy.

Persuasion

Jane Austen

Published posthumously in December 1817, *Persuasion* is Jane Austen's last completed novel. The story revolves around Anne Elliot, a 27-year-old woman who, at the age of 19, was persuaded to break off her engagement to Captain Frederick Wentworth due to his lack of wealth and connections. Eight years later, Anne and Captain Wentworth, now a successful naval officer, meet again, setting the stage for a second chance at love and marriage. The novel explores themes of love, social class, regret, and the consequences of pride and persuasion, reflecting the societal norms and expectations of the Regency era in England[2][4][5].

The 48 laws of power

Robert Greene

In 'The 48 Laws of Power', Robert Greene and Joost Elffers synthesize three thousand years of the history of power into 48 laws. These laws are derived from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz, as well as the lives of influential figures such as Henry Kissinger and P.T. Barnum. The book provides tactics, concepts, and lessons on how to achieve and maintain power, emphasizing prudence, confidence, and self-preservation. Each law is illustrated with historical examples and is designed to help readers understand and navigate the dynamics of power in various aspects of life, including work, social hierarchies, and politics.

The Art of War

Sun Tzu