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