Rules for Rulers

Rule 0

Rule 0: Without Power, You Can Affect Nothing

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Even if you have benevolent intentions, you must first follow the rules of power to stay in office. If you spend “treasure” on the public instead of your keys, a rival will simply promise that money to your keys to overthrow you. [17:53, 02:50]

Rule 1

Rule 1: Get the Key Supporters on Your Side

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A ruler must identify and secure the loyalty of the individuals necessary to enforce laws, collect taxes, and maintain order. Without these “keys,” you have no power. [01:53]

Rule 2

Rule 2: Control the Treasure

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Your primary job as a ruler is to figure out how to raise money and, more importantly, how to distribute it. You must ensure your key supporters are paid enough to remain loyal and to keep their own subordinates from rebelling against them. [02:07]

Rule 3

Rule 3: Minimize Key Supporters

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You should always try to reduce the number of people you need to stay in power. Fewer keys mean the treasure can be split into larger, more persuasive “bribes” for those who remain. This is why dictators often purge their own allies after a successful coup. [04:53, 05:01]