The blog series MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER analyzes human interaction strategies, including leadership and conflict resolution, to help readers navigate power dynamics and build authentic relationships.
Today, we will delve into Law 17 from Robert Greene’s influential work, “The Laws of Human Nature.” You can purchase a copy of the book from AMAZON.COM by clicking HERE.
Law 17 of The Laws of Human Nature: The Law of Generational Myopia
This law focuses on the importance of seizing the historical moment. It suggests that individuals are often defined by the generation they belong to, which can lead to a narrowed perspective or “myopia” regarding the broader historical context. By understanding the spirit of the times and the unique characteristics of one’s own generation, one can better navigate social dynamics and influence the course of events.
From the perspective of an angoleiro, the Law of Generational Myopia manifests in the tension between preserving the ancestral foundations of Capoeira Angola and adapting to the contemporary “spirit of the times”. Just as Greene suggests individuals are defined by their generation, an angoleiro must navigate the specific social dynamics and historical context of their era while remaining rooted in a tradition that spans centuries. This struggle is often visible in the way older mestres emphasize the ritualistic, slower, and more theatrical elements of the game, while younger practitioners may be influenced by the speed and globalization of the modern world.
Overcoming generational myopia in the roda involves recognizing how modern biases—such as a focus on athleticism over ritual—might narrow one’s understanding of the art’s broader historical and spiritual significance. In the context of Capoeira Angola, this myopia often manifests as a disconnect from the ancestral foundations that define the practice. By bridging this gap, the practitioner can ensure that the malicia and wisdom of the past continue to inform the expressions of the present, allowing for a more nuanced and powerful engagement with the art form.
Expanding on this, the “spirit of the times” often dictates that faster and more spectacular movements take precedence, yet an angoleiro must resist the urge to let speed overshadow the strategic depth of the game. To truly master Law 17, one must synthesize the unique characteristics of their own era with the ritualistic and theatrical elements emphasized by older mestres. This synthesis allows the practitioner to navigate modern social dynamics without losing the spiritual core that makes Capoeira a profound game of power and resistance.
Robert Greene’s exploration of this law, which is the 17th of 18 laws in the book, helps readers recognize how generational shifts impact collective behavior and individual psychology, providing strategies to overcome these inherent biases.
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