The 48 Laws of Power
A teen or young adult is likely to
face a crisis of personal power of some sort. Maybe it's a bully at school or
in the workplace . . . a teacher who is unreasonably harsh, a coach who is
covering up a misdeed, a boss who lies, or perhaps someone of the opposite sex
putting too much pressure on them.
What are you supposed to do?
Certainly, never hurt back. But it's more than OK to defend yourself. And it
helps to figure out your counter-moves if you understand the tactics of hurtful
people, even if you aren't going to follow suit.
It's a good idea to teach young
people these concepts about power in order to protect themselves, understand
hurtful people better, and respond intelligently and productively.
A parent and teen might enjoy
reading a book together about power, and discussing it as they go. Author
Robert Greene offers "The 48 Laws of Power" in his book:
http://www.wisdomportal.com/Books/48LawsOfPower.html
Some of these come off as
calculating, unkind and amoral, similar to the principles of power laid out in The Prince by Niccolo Macchiavelli
(1469-1527). But there are gold nuggets of positive, constructive wisdom within
them. Examples:
n
So
much depends on reputation; guard it with your life.
n
Use
absence to increase respect and honor.
n
Do not
build fortresses to protect yourself; isolation is dangerous.
n
Concentrate
your forces; focus on your strengths.
n
Enter
action with boldness; don't do anything half-baked.
n
Plan
all the way to the end.
n
Act
like a king to be treated like one.
n
Master
the art of timing; don't rush, but don't dawdle.