Law 27: Play On People’s Need To Believe To Create A Cultlike Following

The 48 Laws Of Power Summary Series

Judgement

“People have an overwhelming desire to believe in something. Become the focal point of such desire by offering them a cause, a new faith to follow. Keep your words vague but full of promise; emphasize enthusiasm over rationality and clear thinking. Give your new disciples rituals to perform, ask them to make sacrifices on your behalf. In the absence of organized religion and grand causes, your new belief system will bring you untold power.”

The Science Of Charlatanism, Or How To Create A Cult In Five Easy Steps

Greene introduces this law by illustrating how having a large following opens up all sorts of possibilities for deception.

“Not only will your followers worship you, they will defend you from your enemies and voluntarily take on the work of…