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Published Jun 10, 2021

519: Dacher Keltner | The Power Paradox

Jordan Harbinger and psychologist Dacher Keltner delve into the 'Power Paradox,' exploring how power, initially gained through altruism, can erode empathy and ethics, highlighting the crucial roles of reputation, gossip, and accountability in maintaining healthy societal power dynamics.
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  • Power Paradox

    , a psychology professor at UC Berkeley, introduces the concept of the Power Paradox, which highlights the irony that people gain power by helping others but lose those skills once they feel powerful. This paradox is a significant law of human behavior, as power is often granted by groups due to prosocial actions rather than seized through force 1. reflects on how power can unexpectedly affect society and individuals, emphasizing the need to be mindful of its influence 2.

    The power paradox is what I think is one of the most important laws of human behavior. And it's this really interesting irony, which is that people get power by advancing the interests of other people.

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    Understanding this paradox is crucial for fostering a society where power is used responsibly and ethically.

       

    Power and Status

    Power, status, and control are interconnected yet distinct concepts that shape social dynamics. explains that while wealth and class contribute to power, they account for only a fraction of it. True power often stems from social influence and the esteem one holds in others' eyes 3. He also highlights the detrimental effects of powerlessness, which can lead to chronic stress and health issues, underscoring the importance of feeling empowered in society 4.

    If you don't feel powerful, if you don't have a voice at work, if you feel muted in your family, if you feel powerless in marriage, if you feel powerless or stigmatized in society, you are chronically stressed out.

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    This understanding prompts a reevaluation of how power is distributed and perceived.

       

    Empathy and Influence

    Empathy plays a pivotal role in gaining and maintaining power, yet it is often compromised once power is attained. uses historical figures like Abraham Lincoln to illustrate how empathy can elevate leaders, as Lincoln's ability to understand and engage with others was key to his success 5. However, the power paradox reveals that feeling powerful can diminish one's empathic abilities, leading to potential abuses of power 6.

    Lincoln sees all who come to him. He hears all they have to say. And he reads everything that's written. And he was a genius.

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    Recognizing this dynamic is essential for leaders to wield power effectively and ethically.

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