Power

Explanations > Power

Power is the ability to get what you want. As what you want is often constrained by other people, the use of power often includes changing or influencing what others think, believe and do. It is at the heart of all techniques of changing minds.

Further information on power:

• French and Raven's: five forms of power are the most common classification.
• Hobbes and Power: Thomas Hobbes' 17th century view.
• Power enhancers: that increase the efficacy of your power.
• Powerlessness: How we convince ourselves.
• Power types: that extent and simplify other lists.
• Strategic Contingencies Theory: become irreplaceable.
• Three dimensions of power: channels, intent and deliberateness.
• Toffler's Three Forms of Power: Violence, wealth and knowledge.

So What?

Understand the power you have as well as the power of other people. Use your own power carefully. Perhaps the greatest power you can have is to get others to use their power on your behalf.

Beware of sleeping dragons: many people will only use their power when aroused. The most effective power is that used so subtly that people do not realize it is being used.

Power does not have to be used directly: threats are often effective, especially when accompanied by displays of power. Like gorillas thumping their chests, we seldom need to fight.

See also

Theories about power, Power body language, Power words, Politics