Power, Politics, and Influence: A Reflection

 Power:

Power is a fundamental psychological need—an instinct embedded in all living beings. In human society, power manifests as the ability to influence people and control the situations. It is not merely about control; it is about the capacity to shape outcomes, inspire action, and bring about change.

MacClelland, in his Theory of  Needs, has identifies the need of power ( nPow) as the desire to influence, control, and lead  others. This need when aligned with values, becomes a force for transformation.

The Source of Power: Followers and Influence

Power is often conferred upon leader by his followers. A leader becomes powerful not in isolation, but through the trust, belief, and support of those who choose to follow. This is especially evident in the political arena, where a single leader may command the allegiance of millions.

Types of Power:

Power takes many forms, shaped by context and source:

• Charismatic Power: 

Rooted in personal magnetism, this power emerges when followers are drawn to a leader’s personality, ideals, or vision. Political leaders,  Spiritual leaders  and leaders of informal organisation often rely on this form of power.

• Legitimate Power: 

This power is derived from a leader’s formal position within the organisation. It grants them the authority to make decisions, control the situations and get the compliance done.  Heads of the States and Constitutional Authorities, Judiciary Personnel, Government Officials, Chairman and CEOs of Business Organizations, Principals and Directors of the Institutes are vested with this type of power. Here, power flows from the position itself, not necessarily from personal charisma.

•Expert Power: 

This power comes from a leader’s knowledge, skills, and expertise in a critical domain—such as science, technology, or economics. People trust and respect leaders who are seen as a experts. Their insights are sought after by governments and corporations alike.

• Network Power: 

This type of power is derived from a leader’s network and relatiobships they have built.  A person with strong connections—be it classmates, former students, or relatives and friends in high places—can wield significant influence. In fact, organizations often value leaders with robust alumni or professional networks, such as those from IITs or Ivy League Schools.

The Purpose and Ethics of Power:

Power is essential to bring about social, political, or organizational change. But it must be exercised with caution. Power is like fire—capable of lighting the path or burning the house.  

When misused,  power corrodes the soul of the leader and eventually exacts a price. Temptations abound—corruption, manipulation, self-interest—are ever present. But a true leader remains anchored in values. Only then will he experience peace and  fulfilment after his tenure ends.

To acquire power ethically, a leader must build trust, and inspire followers by aligning with their dreams and ambitions. This requires not just charisma, but also communication skills, emotional intelligence, and unwavering integrity.

Politics:

Politics is often described as the exercise of power or the ability to influence others.

The term politics often carries negative connotations—“He is playing politics.” Politics is the pursuit of power. Aspiring to power is not wrong; compromising one’s values to get there is. It becomes problematic when individuals seek power through unethical means, even when they lack the competence or legitimacy to lead.

Here, I respectfully differ from Robert Greene, author of ‘The 48 Laws of Power’. While his work offers strategic insights, I believe that any law or tactic that violates ethical principles should be rejected. Power gained through manipulation is fragile and ultimately self-defeating.

Influence:

Influence is the process by which a leader shapes the attitudes and actions of followers. This influence is built on trust, empathy, openness, transparency, and shared vision. The leader motivates the followers and encourages them to work for the attainment of a goal.  

Importantly, influence is reciprocal. Followers also influence the leader and make him change in his actions and behaviour.

Leading by self example is the best way to influence the people.

A Personal Reflection:

During a state-wide training program on ‘Institutional Management’ for polytechnic teachers, I conducted a session on ‘Power, Politics, and Influence’. Drawing real-life examples, including my own as leader of formal and informal organisations, I shared insights that resonated deeply with participants. I concluded with this reflection: 

‘To implement welfare program or bring change in organization, power is required. Power is acquired by doing politics which is done by influencing people. People are influenced by leader understanding their psychology, and promising fulfilment of their needs and ambitions.’

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @ Pune on Nov 11, 2025

( Value- Based Leadership, Publishing soon)

#ValueBasedLeadership #Leadership