Robert Greene: The Psychology of Power & Social Status | #66

Nick speaks to writer Robert Greene, who is the author of several books exploring different, and sometimes dark, aspects of human psychology. The discussion focuses on the subject of his first book, "The 48 Laws of Power."

They discuss what power is and how it's used. Different psychological traits that people who successfully acquire power tend to have. Strategies that have been useful throughout history for acquiring more power, as well as those that lead to a loss of power. Robert talks the political scientist Niccolo Machiavelli, and how he is often misunderstood. He also gave his perspective on some influential people with power today, including Vladimir Putin, Angela Merkel, and Elon Musk.

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0:00:00 Episode Intro
0:04:53 Robert Greene Intro
0:07:25 Niccolo Machiavelli
0:14:25 Structure of Greene's Books
0:25:03 Power & Relationships
0:30:08 Deceit, Self-Deception & Language
0:41:24 PT Barnum & Capturing Attention
0:50:36 Protecting Yourself From Predation
1:00:57 Robert's Historical Research Process
1:15:00 Powerful Modern World Leaders
1:24:45 Elon Musk & Final Thoughts