#839 - Robert Greene - 12 Raw Truths About Gaining Power & Respect

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Sep 16, 2024

Robert Greene, an acclaimed author and historian, shares profound insights on power and human nature. He discusses the importance of reputation, revealing how it's integral to personal success. Greene critiques modern philosophy and emphasizes nurturing curiosity to combat cynicism. He also explores the dangers of leaders' certainty, the significance of individuality in a competitive market, and the creative potential born from pressure. The conversation weaves through lessons of failure and modern masculinity, encouraging resilience and self-awareness.

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INSIGHT

The Problem with Modern Philosophy

Modern philosophy has become overly reliant on data and detached from practical application to daily life.
Philosophy should offer guidance on how to live, think, and find meaning, rather than focusing solely on abstract concepts.

ANECDOTE

Robert Greene's Career Journey

Robert Greene's diverse experiences in journalism, novel writing, and Hollywood honed his writing skills.
This prepared him for the success of "48 Laws of Power."

ADVICE

The Importance of Knowledge and Skills

Prioritize acquiring knowledge and skills, even if the payoff isn't immediately apparent.
These skills will compound over time, rewiring your brain and creating opportunities.

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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.

Homo ludens

Johan Huizinga

In 'Homo Ludens,' Johan Huizinga argues that play is a fundamental element of human culture, essential for the generation of culture. He traces the contribution of play from ancient times through the Renaissance and into modern society, highlighting its role in law, science, philosophy, and the arts. Huizinga defines play against a rich theoretical background, using cross-cultural examples to illustrate its universal significance and its civilizing functions[2][3][5].

The possibility principle

How Quantum Physics Can Improve the Way You Think, Live, and Love

Mel Schwartz

In 'The Possibility Principle', Mel Schwartz introduces a revolutionary approach to living by applying the core tenets of quantum physics—inseparability, uncertainty, and potentiality. The book shows how these principles can help individuals overcome anxiety and depression, build resilient relationships, develop authentic self-esteem, and communicate effectively. Schwartz argues that by embracing uncertainty and recognizing our integral connection to everything, we can break free from the constraints of our past and old beliefs, and live the life we choose. The book provides practical insights and methods to master one's thinking, overcome fear, and thrive in personal and relational contexts[2][4][5].

Machiavelli's Virtue

Harvey Mansfield

In this book, Harvey C. Mansfield provides a detailed examination of Machiavelli's political thought, particularly his concept of 'virtue' and how it relates to political success. Mansfield argues that Machiavelli's virtue involves a compromise with evil for the sake of political success and explores how this concept is central to Machiavelli's political science. The book brings together essays that reflect Mansfield's thirty years of scholarship on the subject, offering insights into Machiavelli's advice on indirect rule, the role of sects in his politics, and the partisan character of his project. Mansfield also discusses how Machiavelli's ideas have influenced modern institutions such as the impersonal state and the energetic executive.

The Ruins of Kosh

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Roberto Colosso

What Is It Like to Be a Bat?

Thomas Nagel

Thomas Nagel's essay "What Is It Like to Be a Bat?" is a seminal work in philosophy of mind. It explores the subjective nature of consciousness and the challenges of understanding other minds. Nagel argues that even with complete physical knowledge of a bat's brain, we cannot fully grasp its subjective experience. This essay highlights the limitations of reductionist approaches to consciousness. It continues to be a central text in discussions about qualia, subjective experience, and the mind-body problem.