It is just a sequel to one of my introductory journals regarding one of Robert Greene's Youtube videos on mastering your dark side.
Its availability on the net with cool animation got me hooked watching, so I made some of my takes on it.
The video is more about the historical conquest of the powerful kings in Europe during the seat of greatness, dominion and passing of hierarchical rule shaped by war and recovery, but without the absence of tyranny, abuse of power and corruption. It leaves a grim feeling, in a way, but there's more to it.
Running in parallel with Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War' and Niccolo Machiavelli's 'The Prince' (both books I read in the past), the 48 Laws of Power is another version of the same principles. It is about leadership, learning from the rise and downfall of rulers, how each of them maneuvered to change the course of history -- repeated in similar power play of the modern times; thus, the principles are very much applicable, especially in the corporate world and practical living.
Where there is a tactical move, like in the chess, there is a trade-off that needs to be balanced. All in all, the principles were not at all easy to follow. It will need the discernment of personal goals and principles. What makes it very interesting is the idea of simply knowing them.
It is a question of submitting to abuse or being the one to abuse, if taken at extremes. But in finding the right balance, the principles could mean conquest -- or success if it applies today.
Then last but not the least, it is also a reminder that no one stays in one situation forever.
-o0o-