Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power has become an influential guide for those seeking to navigate the treacherous waters of politics, business, and personal dynamics. NDR explores how Donald Trump’s and Vladimir Putin’s strategies align with Greene’s power laws and considers how those same principles might be leveraged against them.
Drawing from historical examples, Robert Greene outlines 48 principles that have been used by powerful figures throughout history to accumulate and wield power. Whether one agrees with these methods ethically or not, the book provides a window into the strategies that many of today’s leaders might employ, consciously or unconsciously.
In learning to the game of power, Greene advices us to master our emotions, play with appearances, shift our perspective on the world and learn from those who came before us. He suggests, that we should see circumstances rather than good or evil, never discriminate as to whom we study and whom we trust and never get caught up in gauging someone’s intentions and actions. He reminds, that if deception is the most potent weapon, then patience is our crucial shield. Also, we should distance ourselves from the present moment and think objectively about the past and future.
Both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have achieved and maintained their positions by navigating complex political landscapes with cunning and an acute understanding of power dynamics. Many of Greene’s laws are not only relevant to their strategies but can also serve as a blueprint for understanding their actions.
Donald Trump and the Art of Power
Donald Trump, former U.S. President and businessman, has consistently made headlines for his unconventional and often controversial methods of leadership. His approach to power can be dissected through the lens of Greene’s laws, revealing a deeper understanding of his tactics.
Law 6: Court Attention at All Costs
One of Greene’s most well-known laws emphasizes the importance of maintaining visibility. In today’s media-saturated world, attention is currency. Trump has mastered this art, frequently dominating news cycles by making bold statements, engaging in controversial behaviour, or stirring up social media storms. He understands that being in the public eye—whether for positive or negative reasons—keeps him relevant and powerful.
Trump’s relentless pursuit of attention can be linked to his roots in reality TV, where drama and spectacle drive ratings. During his presidency, his ability to create scandals, both large and small, ensured that he remained the central figure in American politics, even in moments when other leaders might have faded from view. By keeping the spotlight on himself, Trump consolidated his base of loyal supporters, while also disarming his critics, who often found themselves reacting to his every move.
How to use this law against him:
While Trump thrives on attention, opponents can weaken his influence by shifting the focus away from him. By creating competing narratives or refusing to engage with his provocations, it’s possible to diminish his platform. As Greene suggests, when attention is diverted elsewhere, power wanes. Ignoring his inflammatory statements and focusing on policy or more substantive issues can undermine Trump’s ability to control the public conversation.
Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally
Trump’s approach to dealing with his adversaries has often involved relentless attacks. Whether it’s political rivals, the media, or former allies, Trump has a tendency to “crush” those who challenge him. His Twitter X account, before being banned, was a tool for this, often used to humiliate and discredit opponents in real-time. The same aggressive communication has continued on his own Truth Social and lately back on X (formerly Twitter).
One example of this is Trump’s handling of the 2016 Republican primary. Instead of merely competing with his rivals, he deployed personal attacks, branding opponents with derogatory nicknames like “Little Marco” and “Low Energy Jeb.” These tactics not only made him more memorable but also diminished his opponents’ public standing. In his political dealings, Trump rarely leaves room for reconciliation, preferring to eliminate his enemies rather than reach a compromise.
How to use this law against him:
Those who oppose Trump must avoid half measures. Attempting to placate or work with him on certain issues often backfires, as his tendency to see compromise as weakness leaves opponents vulnerable. Instead, his critics should seek total victories in the political arena—whether through impeachments, indictments, or electoral defeats. By decisively undermining his position and credibility, opponents can prevent Trump from staging comebacks or maintaining a grip on his followers.
Law 17: Keep Others in Suspended Terror – Cultivate an Air of Unpredictability
Trump’s unpredictability has been a key factor in his rise to power. Whether in business or politics, he has consistently defied norms and expectations. His refusal to adhere to predictable patterns keeps his opponents off balance, making it difficult to counter his moves. This unpredictability is a double-edged sword, instilling fear and confusion while simultaneously creating an aura of strength.
As president, Trump’s decision-making process was often opaque, leaving both allies and adversaries unsure of his next move. From trade wars to foreign policy, he seemed to revel in keeping everyone guessing. This unpredictability made it harder for opponents to form coherent strategies against him, as they were never sure what they were up against.
How to use this law against him:
To counter Trump’s unpredictability, one must adopt a strategic steadiness. By remaining consistent and clear in messaging and actions, opponents can contrast his chaotic approach with a more stable and reliable image. Additionally, preparing for multiple contingencies and scenarios in dealing with Trump’s decisions can neutralize his ability to shock and destabilize.
Vladimir Putin and the Craft of Power
Vladimir Putin’s grip on power in Russia has been dominant for 25 years. His approach to leadership is calculated, and he has demonstrated a deep understanding of power dynamics that closely align with Greene’s principles.
Law 3: Conceal Your Intentions
Putin’s ability to obscure his true goals has been one of his defining traits. Whether in his dealings with domestic political opponents, neighbouring countries, or global powers, Putin rarely reveals his cards. This has allowed him to manoeuvre with relative freedom on the global stage, catching opponents off-guard and achieving his objectives before they can fully react.
An example of this is his annexation of Crimea in 2014. Western powers were slow to react because Putin’s intentions were not clear until the very last moment. By concealing his plans and presenting false narratives, Putin created confusion among his adversaries, buying himself the time and opportunity to act decisively.
How to use this law against him:
To counter Putin’s obfuscation, transparency and intelligence gathering are key. By increasing monitoring and surveillance of Russia’s actions, other global powers can expose Putin’s intentions before he has a chance to act on them. Publicly highlighting his strategies and motives can also diminish the effectiveness of his covert operations. In essence, shining a light on his hidden agendas strips him of one of his greatest assets.
Law 32: Play to People’s Fantasies
Putin has adeptly played to the fantasies of Russian nationalism and imperial nostalgia. By presenting himself as the saviour of Russian greatness and framing his actions as the reassertion of Russia’s historical power, he has maintained widespread support. The annexation of Crimea and military interventions in Syria and Ukraine have been presented to the Russian public as bold moves to restore Russia to its rightful place on the world stage.
This taps into a broader narrative within Russia, where many long for the days when the Soviet Union was a global superpower. Putin, by playing to this fantasy, creates a powerful emotional connection with his base, positioning himself as the leader who will make Russia great again.
How to use this law against him:
Opponents of Putin can weaken his hold by countering these fantasies with reality. Exposing the economic and social consequences of his actions, such as the sanctions that have isolated Russia from the global economy or the human costs of military interventions, can undercut the narrative of strength and resurgence. By dismantling the illusion of national glory and exposing the cracks in Putin’s domestic and foreign policies, critics can erode his support base.
Law 11: Learn to Keep People Dependent on You
Putin has built a power structure in Russia where various factions and elites are dependent on him for their wealth and security. By centralizing power and controlling the distribution of resources, he has ensured that no one within the political or business elite can act independently of him. This creates a network of loyalty, as the elites know that their fortunes are tied directly to Putin’s continued dominance.
This strategy extends beyond Russia’s borders. In countries like Syria and Belarus, Putin has positioned himself as an indispensable ally, making these regimes reliant on Russian military and financial support. By entangling these countries in his web of influence, he ensures that they have little choice but to align with Russia’s interests.
How to use this law against him:
To break this dependency, opponents must create alternative power centres. Supporting opposition groups, both within Russia and among Putin’s international allies, can begin to loosen the tight grip of loyalty that Putin enjoys. Additionally, offering alternative alliances or economic incentives to Putin’s dependents can shift their loyalties, weakening the web of influence he has built.
Common Ground: Trump and Putin’s Shared Approach to Power
While Trump and Putin differ significantly in style, there are notable similarities in how they apply certain laws of power. Both rely on creating strong personal brands, cultivating fear, and keeping their enemies off balance through unpredictability. They also share an ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with their base, whether it’s Trump’s “America First” or Putin’s vision of a resurgent Russia.
One of the most striking overlaps is Law 27: Play on People’s Need to Believe to Create a Cult-like Following. Both leaders have managed to build intensely loyal followings, which serve as a buffer against criticism and opposition. Trump’s MAGA movement and Putin’s loyalist supporters are both testaments to the power of creating a narrative that people can rally behind.
How to use this law against them:
To counter their cults of personality, opponents must offer a compelling alternative vision. It is not enough to simply criticize Trump or Putin; a positive, unifying narrative that speaks to the hopes and aspirations of the populace is essential. The key to dismantling a “cult-like” following is not just to attack its leader but to provide a more attractive, hopeful, and achievable alternative. Here are some specific strategies that can be employed to counter both Trump and Putin’s use of Law 27: Providing an Inclusive Vision.
Both Trump’s “Make America Great Again” and Putin’s nationalist revival are exclusionary visions that often marginalize particular groups. Trump’s rhetoric has been polarising, targeting immigrants, minorities, and political opponents as enemies, while Putin’s vision of a strong Russia often excludes those who dissent or belong to ethnic minorities.
To combat this, political opponents must create a more inclusive narrative. A vision of unity, economic opportunity, and social justice can resonate with those disillusioned by divisive rhetoric. By embracing multiculturalism, fairness, and cooperation, opponents can create a sense of belonging for a broader audience, contrasting starkly with the divisive tactics used by both leaders.
Countering Propaganda with Facts
Putin and Trump both benefit from the use of Law 27 by manipulating media and crafting narratives that suit their agendas. In Russia, state-controlled media propagates Putin’s version of reality, while in the United States, Trump has relied on conservative media outlets like Fox News and social media platforms to amplify his message.
To undermine this power, it’s crucial to build reliable, fact-based counter-narratives. This can be done by supporting independent media, investigative journalism, and fact-checking organisations. Social media platforms can also play a role by curbing the spread of misinformation. Governments and NGOs should work together to create public awareness campaigns that expose lies and disinformation, educating the public on how to distinguish between real and fabricated news.
Building Coalitions of Opponents
Another shared trait between Trump and Putin is their ability to divide and conquer their opponents. Both have relied on fracturing the opposition, using fear or manipulation to pit various groups against each other. In the United States, Trump used the divisions within the Democratic Party, as well as internal Republican rifts, to weaken his opponents. Putin has expertly manipulated international alliances, keeping NATO and the European Union from presenting a united front against Russian aggression.
Opponents must learn from Law 23: Concentrate Your Forces. The key to countering both Trump and Putin lies in building strong, unified coalitions that can present a formidable challenge. Domestically, this means political opponents setting aside their differences to focus on the larger threat. Internationally, it requires nations to form tighter alliances, bolstering each other’s economic, political, and military resilience.
Law 33: Discover Each Man’s Thumbscrew
One of the subtler, yet highly effective laws in The 48 Laws of Power, Law 33: Discover Each Man’s Thumbscrew, is a method that involves finding the vulnerability in every opponent. Trump and Putin have both wielded this law with mastery. For Trump, this involves finding weaknesses in his political rivals—whether personal scandals or moments of public embarrassment—and exploiting them. Putin, meanwhile, uses the personal and financial vulnerabilities of Russia’s oligarchs and international counterparts to ensure their loyalty or to neutralise them as threats.
How to use this law against them:
To turn this strategy against Trump and Putin, it is essential to identify their own vulnerabilities and bring them into the light. In Trump’s case, financial investigations into his business dealings, tax avoidance, and legal issues post-presidency could expose weaknesses that chip away at his image as a successful businessman. For Putin, uncovering and publicising his personal wealth, as well as the corruption embedded in his regime, can help weaken his legitimacy, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, exploring areas where his support is thin—such as among younger Russians or those in economically struggling regions—can highlight rifts in his base.
Law 5: So Much Depends on Reputation – Guard It with Your Life
Trump and Putin are acutely aware of the importance of reputation, which Greene highlights as Law 5: So Much Depends on Reputation – Guard It with Your Life. Both leaders have cultivated images of strength and success, which have become central to their public personas. Trump has branded himself as the ultimate dealmaker and businessman, while Putin has carefully crafted an image as the ultimate nationalist, capable of restoring Russia’s global status.
Their reputations are cornerstones of their power. As long as they are seen as strong, capable leaders, their base will remain loyal, and their enemies will hesitate to challenge them directly.
How to use this law against them:
Opponents must focus on dismantling these reputations by highlighting their failures, contradictions, and hypocrisies. For Trump, this might involve focusing on his business failures, bankruptcies, and the legal challenges he faces post-presidency. For Putin, showcasing his domestic economic failures, the impact of sanctions on ordinary Russians, and the disastrous human costs of his military adventures can undermine the image of him as an invincible leader.
This can be amplified through international and domestic media channels, turning small failures into larger symbols of their inefficacy. Moreover, focusing on the human consequences of their policies—such as COVID-19 mismanagement or military casualties in Russia—can challenge the perception that they are always acting in their nation’s best interests.
Law 48: Assume Formlessness
One of the final laws, Law 48: Assume Formlessness, speaks to the need for flexibility in power. Both Trump and Putin have demonstrated this ability to a degree, adapting their rhetoric and strategies to fit new circumstances. Trump shifted from a businessman to a populist leader, leveraging the anger and discontent of working-class Americans. Putin has moved from a democratic reformer in the early 2000s to a nationalist autocrat, expertly manoeuvring the international stage.
How to use this law against them:
Countering formlessness requires flexibility as well. Opponents need to avoid being predictable or rigid in their strategies. If Trump or Putin shifts direction, their opponents must be ready to adapt as well. Relying too heavily on old political paradigms or strategies will be ineffective against leaders who thrive on unpredictability and change. Constantly updating strategies and counter-narratives will keep them on the back foot.
For example, while traditional political attacks may not have been effective against Trump, a focus on grassroots mobilisation and the use of digital campaigns helped his opponents in 2020. Similarly, with Putin, innovative approaches to diplomacy, cyberwarfare, and sanctions might prove more effective than old Cold War tactics.
Law 34: Be Royal in Your Own Fashion – Act Like a King to Be Treated Like One
Trump and Putin have both capitalised on Law 34: Be Royal in Your Own Fashion – Act Like a King to Be Treated Like One. Trump, with his wealth, self-presentation, and branding, has convinced a large portion of his followers that he is a man of greatness, someone who embodies the American Dream. Putin, meanwhile, has surrounded himself with symbols of Russian strength—military might, cultural supremacy, and imperial history.
Both men have exploited this royal imagery to build cults of personality. Their followers see them as more than just politicians; they are saviours, embodiments of national pride and success.
How to use this law against them:
To counteract this royal image, their opponents need to strip away the mystique of power. Demonstrating that both leaders are fallible, human, and prone to mistakes can puncture the inflated perceptions around them. Highlighting their weaknesses and failures with evidence, testimony, and objective data can diminish their aura of invincibility.
For Trump, his tax returns, his handling of the pandemic, and his refusal to concede the 2020 election damaged his image. For Putin, consistent exposure of the economic damage his policies cause, along with revealing the political corruption surrounding him, can chip away at his image of absolute control.
The 48 Laws of Power as a Double-Edged Sword
Robert Greene: The 48 Laws of Power (1999)
Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power offers a comprehensive guide to accumulating and maintaining influence, and it is no surprise that leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin seem to embody many of its principles. Both men have navigated complex political landscapes using laws that amplify their strengths and capitalise on their opponents’ weaknesses.
Yet, as powerful as these laws are, they are not foolproof. The very same principles that have allowed Trump and Putin to rise to prominence can be used against them. By understanding their tactics and learning how to counteract them, opponents can neutralise their influence and potentially weaken their grip on power.
Whether it’s by ignoring their provocations, creating more compelling narratives, or dismantling their carefully constructed reputations, the tools to challenge even the most formidable figures of power are within reach. Understanding the strategies laid out in The 48 Laws of Power is not just about playing the game—it’s about changing the rules.
In the world of politics, power is never static. It shifts, ebbs, and flows, depending on how well individuals navigate the forces at play. Those who seek to challenge Trump or Putin must be as calculated, flexible, and relentless as the men they oppose. Power may be timeless, but its players are ever-changing—and those who learn how to wield it effectively will ultimately decide the future.
