Laws 13 - 18 of "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene



13. Keep Your Hands Clean:

  • Description: Avoid direct involvement in dirty deeds. Let others do the dirty work while maintaining plausible deniability.
  • Example: Cardinal Richelieu, advisor to King Louis XIII, orchestrated plots against enemies but always kept the King at arm's length.
  • Warning: Don't become so detached that you lose control or appear weak.

14. Play the Perfect Courtier:

  • Description: Become a master of flattery and social graces, making yourself indispensable to those in power.
  • Example: courtier Baldassare Castiglione charmed his way through Renaissance courts, using wit and wisdom to gain favor.
  • Warning: Don't lose your identity or become a sycophant. Maintain genuine self-respect.

15. Use Enchantment Instead of Fear:

  • Description: Attract others through charisma and mystery, rather than relying on intimidation or threats.
  • Example: Cleopatra captivated Julius Caesar with her allure, subtly influencing him without force.
  • Warning: Avoid manipulation and false charm. True confidence and authenticity are key.

16. Use Absence to Increase Respect:

  • Description: Make yourself scarce and desirable. Disappear strategically to be missed and valued more on your return.
  • Example: The Queen of England uses carefully planned public appearances to maintain mystique and public interest.
  • Warning: Don't disappear so long that you become irrelevant. Maintain consistent engagement and value.

17. Become a Master of Pace:

  • Description: Adapt your speed and rhythm to the situation. Know when to act quickly, strategically delay, or change pace unexpectedly.
  • Example: Sun Tzu's "Art of War" emphasizes mastering the tempo of battle to gain advantage.
  • Warning: Don't become erratic or lose focus. Maintain control and clear strategy.

18. Play with an Open Hand:

  • Description: Appear open and honest, willing to share information and secrets strategically. This disarms opponents and fosters trust.
  • Example: Abraham Lincoln used transparency and openness to navigate political conflicts and build alliances.
  • Warning: Don't reveal true intentions or vulnerabilities. Maintain boundaries and strategic secrecy.

Remember, these laws are often controversial and should be considered with caution. They primarily focus on acquiring and maintaining power in a Machiavellian sense, and may not be ethical or suitable for all situations. Use your own judgment and ethical compass when interpreting and applying them.

I hope this explanation is helpful! Feel free to ask further questions about specific laws or their potential applications.

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