| Human Profile | |
| Name: | Robert Greene |
| Birthday: | May 14, 1959 (age 65 years), Born in Los Angeles, California |
| Height: | 6’0” (183 cm) |
| Education: | University of Wisconsin-Madison (BA), Classical Studies |
| Notable Works: | The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, Mastery |
| Partner: | Anna Biller |
| Net Worth: | $7 million |
| Website: | Power, Seduction and War |
Early Life and Education
Robert Greene was born on May 14, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, into a Jewish family. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Classical Studies. Greene’s early career was diverse; he estimates having worked around 50 jobs, including roles as a construction worker, translator, magazine editor, and Hollywood writer. This eclectic background provided him with a broad perspective on human nature and power dynamics, which would later become central themes in his writing. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Literary Career and Major Works
In 1995, while working at Fabrica, an art and media school in Italy, Greene met book packager Joost Elffers. This meeting was pivotal, leading to the development of his first book, “The 48 Laws of Power,” published in 1998. The book distills lessons from historical figures, offering insights into power and strategy. It has sold over 1.2 million copies and is banned in several U.S. prisons due to its content on manipulation and control. Greene’s subsequent works include “The Art of Seduction” (2001), “The 33 Strategies of War” (2006), “The 50th Law” (2009) co-authored with rapper 50 Cent, “Mastery” (2012), “The Laws of Human Nature” (2018), and “The Daily Laws” (2021). Each book explores different facets of human behavior, strategy, and mastery, solidifying Greene’s reputation as a leading author in these genres. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Influence and Reception
Greene’s works have garnered a diverse readership, including business professionals, artists, and political figures. Notably, “The 48 Laws of Power” has been referenced by celebrities such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, and Drake, highlighting its impact on popular culture. However, his books have also faced criticism for promoting manipulative tactics, with some labeling them as amoral. Despite this, Greene maintains that his works are observations of real-world behaviors and strategies, aiming to provide readers with tools to navigate complex social landscapes. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Personal Life
Robert Greene resides in Los Angeles with his partner, filmmaker Anna Biller. He is known to lead a disciplined lifestyle, engaging in activities such as mountain biking and swimming. Greene is also a student of Zen Buddhism and is proficient in multiple languages. In 2018, he suffered a serious stroke, which he has discussed publicly, sharing insights into his recovery process and how it has influenced his perspective on life and work. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Legacy and Continuing Work
As of 2024, Robert Greene’s net worth is estimated at $7 million, reflecting the commercial success of his publications. He continues to write and speak on topics related to power, strategy, and human nature, contributing to various platforms and engaging with audiences worldwide. Greene’s books remain influential, offering readers in-depth analyses of historical and contemporary figures to uncover timeless principles of power and mastery. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}