When inmates are in prison, they are able to read books. However, it does not mean that they can read any books that they want because there are books which are banned in prison. One of the banned books in prisons is The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. Why is this book banned in prison?
The reason why The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene is banned in prisons is because this book is considered dangerous. The content of the book may be able to be used by irresponsible inmates to do acts that can harm people or to get their own advantages. So, what are the points of the content of the books so that it is banned in prisons?
Promoting Amoral and Manipulation
This book is considered to be able to promote amoral and manipulation to get influence. As explained on the Millennial Sanguine site, in the chapter entitled “Crush Your Enemy Totally”, there is the historical example of Cardinal Richelieu who used cunning tactics to be able to weaken his enemies and to strengthen his power during the French Wars of Religion. By giving this story, readers may be motivated to prioritize their personal gain over ethical considerations.
Making People Have a Cynical View
There are a number of parts of the book that describe human interactions as a constant power struggle. Readers may be influenced to have a cynical view if they read the portrayal of human relationships as suspicious and hostile. It may affect their daily life where their trust and cooperation are ruined. In the book, there is a quote which says, “the bolder the lie the better”. This quote seems to suggest people to normalize lying and it is not good at all.
Arising Ethical Concerns
“Get Others to Do the Work for You, but Always Take the Credit” is one of the chapters of the book. In the chapter, it is explained that there are historical figures that manipulated subordinates to be able to get their own goals, but they claimed credit for themselves. With this explanation, readers may be motivated to do dishonest things and eliminate principles of fairness and integrity. So, the teachings in this book without thoughtful consideration can be dangerous.
Ignoring the Importance of Empathy and Collaboration
There is a chapter of this book entitled “Conceal Your Intentions” where it explains figures that used deception to gain their political ends. We know that in certain conditions, being careful is important. However, if we focus excessively on concealment, it can obstruct open communication and genuine relationships.
The Possibility of Misuse
The explanation of the book about gaining power in this book may be misused by criminals. In the chapter entitled “Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor”, it is explained about historical figures like Alcibiades who used strategic absence to escalate his reputation and influence. If inmates read this book, especially this part, they may be inspired to use the same tactics to evade arrest or even to manipulate others for bad purposes.
That’s all a number of reasons why the 48 Laws of Power book by Robert Green is banned in prison according to the Millennial Sanguine site. Books that are read by inmates should be able to motivate inmates to be better human beings and have a positive impact on them so that books considered dangerous are banned by prison from being read by inmates.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
