The Politics of Life: 25 Rules for Survival in a Brutal and Manipulative World (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Washington journalist and author Crawford (Attack the Messenger) gives Machiavelli a user-friendly 21st century update with this guide to life's struggles for the unwary, the good-natured and the "never met a man I didn't like" gang. Though his perception of the world and his cautionary stance can be glum, Crawford's wisdom, for the most part, is unarguable. A veteran of the barracuda business world, he regales readers with Art of War-like rules from the get-go: "Life is a Filthy Battle," "A True Enemy Should Be Eliminated, Never Tolerated" and "Never Postpone the Inevitable Conflict" among them. The author maintains that people often follow Machiavelli's militant advice without considering the philosopher's admonitions for balance: "People get their way simply by asserting something...with believable-sounding support," whether or not it's true, "manipulating people...not unlike training dogs." To buck up for the fight, Crawford encourages "a positive outlook on pain will help you ease the harm that you must occasionally do to another...cast the experience on character-building." Though his advice isn't groundbreaking, Crawford is adept in his use of anecdotes to illustrate tough truths in a logical framework, providing excellent advice for launching endeavors, moving in a positive direction, surviving the scoundrels and embracing life. Crawford's tone can be harsh, but the slight flinching reaction one might begin with segues to enjoyment and identification as Crawford presents recognizable real-life scenarios, prompting plenty ah-ha moments of practical discovery.
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Review

Craig Crawford, a Washington pundit, has written a fascinating and insightful guidebook on the use of power in public life, and ways to avoid the pitfalls. He shows it takes a little bit of Machiavelli to play the game in politics--and life--and succeed. -- Helen Thomas, Hearst columnist and Dean, White House Press Corps

Finally, a book that cleverly uses real politics to help people gain ground in their own lives. The 10 commandments will get you to heaven, but Craig Crawford's 25 rules will help you survive the purgatory on earth. Read this--before it's too late! -- Larry J. Sabato, Director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. (June 25, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0742552500
• ISBN-13: 978-0742552500
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (14 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #370,132 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Brain food..., May 23, 2007

By	Patsi Bale Cox (Nashville, TN USA) - See all my reviews

I love Craig Crawford's writing. He is to the point and on point. He is unpretentious and smart -- and that's a rarity. The Politics of Life is an antidote to the dumbing down we've experienced in this country of late. This is no good-guys-versus-bad-guys morality play, but an insightful look at working with the realities of everyday life, whether in the hallowed halls of Washington or the Tastee Freeze in Topeka. I'm getting a copy for a young friend who has just graduated with a degree in international studies, and one for another who recently finished her social work degree. I'm also socking one away for the day my one-year old granddaughter may need some good advice. I wish to hell Craig had written it in time for my college graduation....except I think he was still in short pants.

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If You're Alive, You Must Read This Book, May 1, 2007

By	Book Lover "Book Lover" - See all my reviews

Politics is not just for politicians who run governments. So many of us say we hate politics, but we play politics every day. Whether maneuvering for a better table at a restaurant or pushing for a promotion, we are always using power plays for control - the essence of politics. The Politics Of Life: 25 Rules for Survival In A Brutal and Manipulative World matches the 16th Century philosopher, Machiavelli's, ideas in plain English with the secrets and strategies of master politicians throughout history, laying out the 25 rules for playing politics beyond government -- at work, in your family, among your friends and against your enemies. If you are alive, you need to read these rules.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Politics of Life, May 23, 2007

By	Denise Cohn "DennyCO" (Cleveland,OH USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is a must read for anyone taking their life back albeit in personal or business relationships. Craig hits the nail on the head when it comes to how to negoitiate for a car, get a promotion or learn to stick to your guns and manage your self in conflict. It is not always the loudest voice that is always heard in life. Craig will leave you feeling empowered and ready to be your own personal agent. Cudos for this. I look forward to a formal book tour so I can shake his hand for a job well done.

Dennyco in Cleveland