Ariel Gutierrez
03/14/2016
The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
While reading this book, it was interesting to see how the read was popular among prison
inmates and celebrities. Inspired by the biography of Julius Caesar, Greene began writing
this book, enacted as the turning point in his life. Most of the laws are humble advice,
coming from historical and philosophical figures. What I liked about the book is they don’t
try to micro-manage you or judge you in a sense of right and wrong, but instead Robert
tries to influence you in how to gain that power. I found myself highlighting and creating a
list on my phone to remind myself so I can try to memorize them. The author manages to
get the author to reflect on his or hers moral compass, finding more peace and tranquility
on my conscience. I also find myself having more patience with myself, which is
something I tend to struggle with. I particularly liked Law #2 “Never put too much trust in
friends, learn how to use enemies” providing examples in past history on how this deed
never went unpunished. Another one of the laws that stood out to me was Law #34, “Be
royal in your own fashion: Act like a king to be treated by one.” By being mature and
respectable, you improve yourself in the eyes of others and add value to your personal
appearance.