The definition of Power (1.4)
The mechanics of Power and Status are not the same.
Introduction
About 10 years ago I got detained in the LAX airport.
A few years later my 2 year old daughter started crying because she wanted something in a shopping centre and sat on the floor.
Both of these situations someone had power over me.
Definition of Power
“The ability to force someone to do something, even if they don’t want to”
Power is socially centralised.
There is a direct entity who does the forcing if needed.
As a child your parents have power over you, and so do police and governments.
Each doesn’t have to use force, but they have the ability if they desire.
There is a range of ways power can be enforced including physical violence or reputation destruction.
Power’s tool is fear and direct consequences.
Power’s benefit is speed and efficiency.
Power vs. Status
“Status is the combined level of voluntary authority someone is given by others in the same group.”
The key word here is ‘voluntary’, as it implies a voluntary action.
Status is socially decentralised.
Status cannot be forced as the individual is the ultimate decision maker about who they respect.
A person with Status can use force, however this results is a loss of Status.
Status is gained by persuasion.
Status’ benefit is self correction and innovation.
Pop Culture Example
A good example to visualise the difference between Status vs. Power is the movie Gladiator.
Maximus is a leader with unmatched respect (Status) who deserves authority.
Commodus a leader who has his position through structurel force (Power) and is not deserving of authority.
Power is stored Status
Authority over people utilises a combination of Status and Power.
Modern governments use power to control citizens’ behaviour through laws and punishments.
They maintain status through a complex web of media narratives and revised history.
A total reliance on power eventually drains all legitimate status — which is what we see at the end of empires.
This is why governments must continue to build status to maintain power.
In a place like North Korea the the propaganda and information is obvious to outsiders, but is seen as legitimate by many citizens.
Parents & Teachers
Adult authority over children can give insights to Power and Status.
Some teachers and parents have to rely completely on Power to get children to do what they ask.
But eventualy this leads to an unwillingness to follow.
Great teachers and parents will use Status as the primary tool to influence behaviour.
Bulling
Bullies rely on the power to threaten others.
Their weapon of choice could be physical
But in 2022 it is more likely to be character assassination through gossoping.
Status is more sustainable than Power
People in positions of authority should always strive for Status over Power.
From companies to rock bands, if leaders don’y have the consensual respect from the group their days are numbered.
When someone uses Power it reduces the amount of Status they have.
When is power needed?
There are situations when Power can be advantageous over Status.
For example if the authority knows something that the rest of the population does not.
Let’s say a leader knows there is about to be a Tsunami and forces everyone to move.
If the Tsunami happens, Status actually increases due the assumed possession of knowledge.
If the Tsunami doesn’t come, status is lost.
Conclusion
Power and Status are often grouped together because they are both forms of authority
It can be as micro as how you discipline your children and as macro as global politics.
Understanding the difference between power and status helps identify and potentially create better authority structures.
Question:
Who has power over you ? What is the implied consequences if you do not comply?
