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Summary: Fascinating Book, but Dont Take It too Seriously
Review: This book is well presented and very gripping to read. The historical examples are fascinating and very convincing. When I first picked it up I couldnt put it down for over an hour, but I dont think that it should be taken quite as seriously as the authors intended. Modern society is quite different to the world of the medieval era, and the fact that we no longer apply some of the principles that they used to great effect back then is what defines progress. One example that stands out is the law "Crush enemies totally" -- the idea of this is that if you do not fully destroy your adversary the first time you have the opportunity he will come back and get you. However it is hard to imagine a situation in todays world where you could legally do this; killing, crippling or exiling an enemy were much more legitimate options several hundred years ago. This book is certainly worth reading and does have some useful information, but I wouldn't go organizing my life around its advice. Another thing it made me wonder is would I rather have power over other people or get along with them as friends? And is it possible to do both?
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Summary: for the application of only one star to this book.
Review: maybe these people or following the laws. do not be blinded, know your enemies! see laws 3 & 14.
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Summary: Immediate SUCCESS!
Review: Why is power important? Well, if you're not in control, then someone else is, and then your life is being controlled by someone else. Certainly not for moralists, this Machiavellic book will teach you strategies for obtaining and maintaining power and control. This does not mean being agressive, people will willingly give into your leadership because you will have learned how to manipulate them, and they'll like you even more! (amazingly). Learn not to underestimate others. Learn to make others underestimate you sometimes (play a bit dumb. Learn every trick in the book of Power (and be able to deduct any one that may not be included in this book once you assimilate the philosophy behind it). Of course, you can believe everyone is nice and that power is only for sick people. Or, you could read this book, use it, and get control of your world! (Why don't you read it, try it, and then decide) I also recommend "Winning: Using Lawyers' Courtroom techniques to get Your Way in Everyday Situations" by Noelle C. Nelson, "What would Machiavelli Do?" by Stanley Bing, and "The Prince" by Machiavelli.
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Summary: Brain Author loved this book...explains the crummy politics.
Review: For years I watched as things went on in my institution that I did not understand. Reading this book was entertaining but very scary because it explains a lot about darker side of human nature in all of us. Best to Elffers and Greene for an excellent write, and a beautiful review of history as well...may I suggest "The Care and Feeding of Your Brain" as a means for keeping sane while you digest all this wonderfully-written-but-oft-painful truth? Ken Giuffre MD, author "The Care and Feeding of Your Brain"
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Summary: A MUST READ for anyone who desires success
Review: I received this book as a gift and have subsequently purchased 5 copies for friends and family. Historical examples which prove the laws of power make the book both compelling and effective as demonstrations of everyday use of the authors techniques. Unlike several self help books which provide examples in abstract, the author makes it easy to not only understand and demonstrate the laws of power, but by pointing out historical examples both in the main text and the margins, gives the reader a true understanding of how to apply them in daily life. This is great for anyone in a field such as trial law, or any corporate field where one strives to acheive a position of power.
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Summary: Best This Year
Review: Once in a while we get some very well written self-help titles like this book in which we can apply it in everyday living. A must have .
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Summary: Magnificent.
Review: This book is magnificent. It will surely become a classic, alongside The Prince. Reveals the true nature of power, as well as the ways to get it and keep it. Moralists beware! this book is not for you. It might make you see the reality you want to suppress.
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Summary: EXCELLENT!
Review: Imagine a leadership seminar whose speakers include history's greatest statesmen, leaders and shysters. Truly fascinating and enjoyable.
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Summary: What I have read so far is great!
Review: This book teaches people great mind games that for some reason come to certain people naturally. It is great to get some insight on what they were doing to you before you really understood what they were doing.
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Summary: Make Me See Life Differently
Review: The 48 Laws taught me a number of life lessons.It is a must read for those who wish to get something out of your life. Life would never be the same after reading it. I strongly recommend that the book be read at least once a year.I wish I could say more..but Law 3 states that "Always say than necessary". Read the masterpiece to find out more then.
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