Trump's 'The Art of the Deal': A Critical Review

With its release back in the late 1980s, 'The Art of the Deal' by Donald Trump became a worldwide phenomenon, topping bestseller lists and garnering attention from media outlets and the general public. However, many critics have since questioned the authenticity of the book. In this review, we delve into the questionable aspects of 'The Art of the Deal'.

Did Trump Write It?

Contrary to popular belief, 'The Art of the Deal' wasn't actually written by Donald Trump. According to various reports, the book was ghostwritten by Tony Schwartz. This revelation has sparked significant debates about the integrity of the work and its credibility. Despite this, the book remains a fascinating read for those interested in the world of business and politics.

Prophetic Dreams and Business Acumen

Years ago, I had a dream in which I met Donald Trump and asked him about his business acumen. His response, "Just remember life is all about BS," resonated with my skepticism of the book. I consider this dream prophetic, as it reflects the controversial aspects of the book and Trump's lifelong reputation for using questionable tactics to achieve his goals.

Others have drawn comparisons to well-known works such as Saul Alinsky's 'Rules for Radicals,' Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War,' Dale Carnegie's 'How to Win Friends and Influence People,' and even Machiavelli's 'The Prince.' These books all explore the art of power and manipulation, which aligns with Trump's approach in his business ventures. However, it's crucial to note that these books, like 'The Art of the Deal,' often lack the authenticity and personal insights that make them valuable studies.

A Vanity Project Highlighting Rich Boy Tactics

Truly, 'The Art of the Deal' reads more like a vanity project than a genuine business guide. It highlights Trump's lifelong rich-boy tactics rather than offering practical advice on how to run a successful business. The book showcases Trump's ability to negotiate deals, but these deals were often the result of his status and connections rather than genuine strategic thinking or hard work.

While some might argue that the book offers valuable insights, the absence of original thought and the reliance on ghostwriting make it a less-than-credible source. If you're genuinely interested in learning how to run a successful airline, magazine, range of steaks, brand of vodka, casino, or university, you might find more value in studying the works mentioned above or seeking out content from experts in these fields.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'The Art of the Deal' by Donald Trump is a critically examined work. It's clear that the book is not an original achievement in the realm of business literature, but rather a product of ghostwriting and self-promotion. If you're looking for a vanity project that highlights a lifelong approach to business based more on rich boy tactics than genuine strategic acumen, this book may be of interest. However, for those seeking credible and insightful business advice, you may want to look elsewhere.