20 best books on dominance – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the fascinating world of power dynamics and leadership, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a natural-born leader or simply curious about the psychology of dominance, these 20 best books about dominance will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and insights. From exploring the strategies of successful leaders to dissecting the dynamics of social hierarchies, each book on dominance is guaranteed to leave you with a fresh perspective on the art of power.


The Power

by Naomi Alderman

The Power by Naomi Alderman is a captivating and thought-provoking book that explores the concept of control and authority in a world turned upside down. Dubbed as the ultimate book on dominance, it takes readers on a thrilling journey into a society where the balance of power shifts dramatically.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

by Yuval Noah Harari

Welcome to the fascinating world of Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari! Prepare yourself for a mind-bending journey through the annals of human existence, as Harari takes us on a captivating exploration of our species’ history, achievements, and the underlying forces that have shaped our dominance on this planet.

This groundbreaking dominance book delves deep into the very essence of what it means to be human, analyzing our triumphs and tribulations throughout the ages. Harari’s eloquent prose and thought-provoking insights make this a must-read for anyone seeking to unravel the intricate tapestry of our past.

From our humble origins as insignificant primates to the apex predators we are today, Harari skillfully examines how our ability to cooperate and create complex societies propelled us to the top of the food chain. But what exactly led to our dominance over other species? How did Homo sapiens manage to establish a global empire while other human species vanished into the annals of history?

Harari masterfully weaves together anthropology, history, biology, and sociology to provide answers to these intriguing questions. He explores the rise of agriculture, the emergence of religion, the birth of empires, and the profound impact of technological advancements, all of which have played indispensable roles in our relentless quest for dominance.

Prepare to have your preconceived notions shattered and your mind expanded as Harari challenges conventional wisdom and forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our species’ past. Sapiens is not just a book about dominance; it is a powerful examination of who we are, where we came from, and where we might be headed in the future.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an intellectual adventure that will forever change your perspective on humanity, join Harari as he unravels the intricate story of our species in Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking exploration of our dominance and the extraordinary journey that brought us to where we are today.

The Handmaid’s Tale

by Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a chilling and thought-provoking book on dominance. Set in a dystopian future where women are stripped of their rights and reduced to their reproductive capabilities, Atwood presents a harrowing vision of a society ruled by a totalitarian regime. In this dominance book, women are assigned specific roles: the Handmaids are forced to bear children for the ruling elite, while others serve as wives or domestic servants. Through the eyes of the main character, Offred, we witness the oppressive control and manipulation imposed upon women by those in power. Atwood’s masterful storytelling and sharp social commentary make this book about dominance a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the dark side of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power.

Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow

by Yuval Noah Harari

Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow by Yuval Noah Harari is not just a book about dominance, it is a fascinating exploration of humanity’s relentless pursuit of power and control. In this thought-provoking masterpiece, Harari delves into our innate desire to dominate and conquer, examining how it has shaped our past and will shape our future.

1984

by George Orwell

1984 by George Orwell is a captivating and thought-provoking book about the eerie world of dominance and control. Set in a dystopian society, the novel explores the terrifying consequences of absolute power in a chillingly realistic manner. The story follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party, as he rebels against the oppressive regime that monitors every aspect of its citizens’ lives. Through Winston’s harrowing journey, Orwell paints a bleak picture of a society stripped of individuality, privacy, and even freedom of thought. This dominion-focused masterpiece serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked authority, making it a must-read for anyone fascinated by the complexities of power dynamics.

Brave New World

by Aldous Huxley

Brave New World, Aldous Huxley’s thought-provoking masterpiece, is a mesmerizing book on the relentless pursuit of control and power. Set in a dystopian future, this captivating novel delves into a world where domination reigns supreme.

The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling book about the unyielding power struggle that lies at the heart of a dystopian society. Set in a world where dominance reigns supreme, this captivating story takes readers on a relentless journey through a brutal competition for survival.

The Circle

by Dave Eggers

The Circle by Dave Eggers is a captivating book on dominance that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark underbelly of technology and power. This dominance book explores the dangerous consequences of an all-encompassing tech corporation that seeks to control every aspect of people’s lives.

The Stand

by Stephen King

The Stand by Stephen King is a captivating book on dominance that delves into the depths of human nature and the struggle for power in a post-apocalyptic world. This dominance book presents a chilling tale of survival, where individuals are forced to confront their darkest instincts and fight for control.

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

Welcome to the thrilling world of The Maze Runner by James Dashner! Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping adventure filled with mystery, intrigue, and a dash of dominance.

In this captivating dominance book, Dashner takes us on a journey to a post-apocalyptic world where a group of young boys find themselves trapped in a massive maze. These boys, known as the Gladers, are left with no memories of their past lives, and their only hope of survival lies in solving the intricate maze that surrounds them.

As the Gladers navigate the maze, they soon discover that there is a strict hierarchy within their community. A select few, known as the Runners, possess a certain level of dominance as they courageously explore the maze, risking their lives to find an escape route.

This book on dominance delves deep into the psychological dynamics of power and control. The Gladers must not only conquer the physical challenges of the maze, but also navigate the complexities of their own relationships and the dominance struggles that arise within their group.

Dashner’s storytelling is masterful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they eagerly follow the Gladers’ quest for freedom. With each twist and turn, the power dynamics shift, revealing the true nature of dominance and the lengths one will go to maintain it.

So, buckle up and get ready to immerse yourself in a world where dominance reigns supreme. The Maze Runner will leave you exhilarated, questioning the nature of power, and eagerly turning the pages to uncover the secrets of the maze.

The Giver

by Lois Lowry

The Giver by Lois Lowry is a captivating book on dominance, set in a seemingly utopian society where conformity and control reign supreme. This thought-provoking novel takes readers on a journey through a world where individuality is suppressed and sameness is celebrated.

The Road

by Cormac McCarthy

The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a riveting post-apocalyptic tale that explores the boundaries of human existence in a world devoid of civilization. Set in a desolate landscape where survival is the only instinct, this masterfully written novel delves into the depths of human nature, showcasing the eternal struggle for dominance.

The Girl with All the Gifts

by M.R. Carey

The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey is a captivating book on dominance. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it explores the struggle for power and control in a unique and thrilling way. The story follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by a fungal infection that turns humans into mindless, flesh-eating monsters. In this dominance book, the characters must confront their own desires for power and dominance as they fight to survive. With its gripping storyline and thought-provoking themes, The Girl with All the Gifts is a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh take on the dominance genre.

The Fifth Sacred Thing

by Starhawk

The Fifth Sacred Thing, written by Starhawk, is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the intricacies of power and control in a futuristic world. Set in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco, this novel challenges the notion of dominance and offers a fresh perspective on societal structures.

The Dispossessed

by Ursula K. Le Guin

The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin is a thought-provoking book about the intricate dynamics of power and control, set in a distant and enigmatic universe. This gripping novel delves deep into the concept of dominance, exploring its various forms and the consequences it has on individuals and societies.

The Children of Men

by P.D. James

The Children of Men by P.D. James is a riveting dystopian novel that explores a future world where humanity faces an unimaginable crisis. Set in a world plagued by infertility, this thought-provoking book delves into the struggles of a society desperate for hope and a future worth fighting for.

In this dominion of despair, P.D. James weaves a gripping tale that reveals the fragility of human existence and the depths of our primal instincts. The author masterfully crafts a narrative that challenges the very essence of what it means to be dominant in a world on the brink of extinction.

With her exquisite prose and meticulous attention to detail, James paints a vivid picture of a society teetering on the edge of chaos. The book offers a unique perspective on the notion of dominance, exploring the power dynamics that emerge in a world devoid of new life.

Through her complex and compelling characters, James invites readers to question the nature of dominance and its far-reaching consequences. The Children of Men is a captivating exploration of human nature, survival, and the lengths we will go to assert our dominance over a world in turmoil.

Prepare to be captivated by this gripping dystopian tale that will leave you pondering the depths of dominance and the resilience of the human spirit. Dive into The Children of Men and discover a world where dominance takes on a whole new meaning.

The Parable of the Sower

by Octavia E. Butler

The Parable of the Sower is a riveting book on dominance that will captivate readers from start to finish. Set in a dystopian future, this masterpiece by Octavia E. Butler explores the harsh realities of a crumbling society and the quest for survival.

In this dominance book, Butler introduces us to Lauren Olamina, a young woman with a unique ability called hyperempathy. Living in a world plagued by violence, poverty, and environmental destruction, Lauren possesses the power to feel the physical and emotional pain of those around her. This extraordinary gift becomes both a burden and a source of strength as she navigates the treacherous landscape of a society on the brink of collapse.

The Parable of the Sower delves deep into themes of power, oppression, and the human will to survive. As Lauren witnesses the crumbling of social structures and the rise of religious fanaticism, she begins to develop her own belief system called Earthseed. This compelling ideology centers around the idea that humanity’s destiny lies in the stars, and that change can only be achieved through adaptation and resilience.

Butler’s writing is captivating, drawing readers into the desperate world she has created. Her vivid descriptions bring the desolate landscapes and volatile characters to life, immersing us in a world filled with danger and uncertainty. Through Lauren’s journey, we witness the strength of the human spirit and the lengths one can go to overcome adversity.

The Parable of the Sower is a thought-provoking and powerful book about dominance that will leave readers questioning the very nature of power and the role it plays in our lives. Butler’s masterful storytelling and exploration of complex themes make this a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and impactful literary experience.

The Iron Heel

by Jack London

The Iron Heel, written by the legendary Jack London, is a riveting book on dominance that will leave you breathless. Set in a dystopian future, this gripping tale explores the struggle between the ruling class and the oppressed workers, painting a vivid picture of a society where power and control reign supreme.

In this book about dominance, London delves deep into the dark underbelly of a world where the elite few exploit and subjugate the masses. Through the eyes of the protagonist, we witness the relentless pursuit of power and the lengths to which those in control will go to maintain their dominance.

London’s masterful storytelling transports us to a reality where the lines between right and wrong, good and evil, are blurred. As we follow the protagonist’s journey, we are confronted with the harsh realities of a society driven by greed and manipulation, forcing us to question our own place in such a world.

The Iron Heel is a dominance book that explores the complexities of human nature and the inherent desire for power. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that arise when dominance is unchecked and the importance of resisting oppression.

Prepare to be captivated by Jack London’s powerful prose and thought-provoking narrative. The Iron Heel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling story that challenges societal norms and sheds light on the dynamics of power and control.

The Power of the Daleks

by Terrance Dicks

Are you ready to delve into the thrilling world of power and control? Look no further than The Power of the Daleks by Terrance Dicks, a mesmerizing book on dominance that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The Lathe of Heaven

by Ursula K. Le Guin

The Lathe of Heaven, penned by the renowned science fiction writer Ursula K. Le Guin, is a mesmerizing book on dominance that delves into the complexities of human power and control. Set in a dystopian future, this thought-provoking masterpiece explores the profound consequences of a man who possesses the extraordinary ability to alter reality through his dreams.

This captivating dominance book takes readers on a compelling journey alongside George Orr, a seemingly ordinary individual who possesses a remarkable gift. With a single dream, George can reshape the world, rewriting history and altering the very fabric of existence. However, he soon realizes the immense weight of his power and the unforeseen consequences that arise from his dream manipulations.

Le Guin artfully weaves a narrative that explores the intricate dynamics of power and control, challenging the notion of humanity’s dominion over the world. Through George’s dreams, she poses profound questions about the nature of dominance, authority, and the ethical boundaries of wielding such immense power.

As readers delve deeper into this enthralling tale, they discover the intricacies of George’s relationship with Dr. William Haber, a psychiatrist who becomes entangled in a web of manipulation and ambition. Driven by his own desire for dominance, Haber seeks to exploit George’s power for his own gain, leading to a series of cascading events that force both characters to confront the consequences of their actions.

With its richly imagined world and thought-provoking exploration of dominance, The Lathe of Heaven offers readers a compelling and introspective journey. Le Guin’s masterful storytelling, combined with her insightful examination of power dynamics, make this book about dominance a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts and those who yearn to delve into the depths of human nature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about dominance are essential reads for anyone interested in understanding power dynamics and leadership. Whether you are looking to improve your own leadership skills, gain insights into successful leaders, or simply broaden your knowledge on the subject, these books offer valuable perspectives and advice. From classics like Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” to modern bestsellers like Robert Greene’s “The 48 Laws of Power,” each book on this list offers unique and valuable lessons that can help you navigate the complex world of dominance and influence. So, pick up a copy of these books and unlock the secrets to mastering the art of dominance.