Chapter 1: Understanding Our Power Cravings

Recently, I watched a film that highlighted the power dynamics between a wealthy couple and their young adult housekeeper. This observation led me to ponder a significant question about human nature: why do we have such a strong desire for power? This topic has been a point of contention on platforms like Twitter, particularly in discussions surrounding terrible bosses and their influence.

Why do we seek power? This inquiry goes beyond the basic survival instinct of needing control over our environment. What about when we have already secured our place above potential threats? Why do we continue to seek dominance over others?

Defining Power

Power can be understood through two key attributes: (1) the capacity to influence one's own outcomes as well as those of others, and (2) the freedom to act independently. The power dynamics that shape our daily lives often go unnoticed. Numerous texts have explored the quest for power, whether it's for political gain, workplace influence, or even personal vendettas.

But why are we so fixated on power?

Perhaps it stems from a fundamental distrust of others—doubting their intentions or their ability to act in our best interests. We yearn for control. Additionally, this obsession may relate to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. After fulfilling basic requirements such as food and shelter, the pursuit of power can provide a sense of esteem or self-actualization.

Conversely, a more optimistic perspective suggests that our desire for power isn't merely to dominate others; rather, it reflects our aspiration to steer our own life path. Interestingly, a study indicated that nearly 30% of participants expressed a desire for power simply for its own sake.

The most altruistic reason for wanting power, however, is the intention to do good. Yet, this raises an important question: why do well-intentioned individuals sometimes misuse their influence?

The Intersection of Power and Neuroscience

“Power is power,” — Cersei Lannister

I encountered intriguing research utilizing transcranial magnetic stimulation to investigate the impact of power on the brain. Findings revealed that individuals primed for power exhibited diminished motor resonance, suggesting a decrease in their ability to empathize with others.

What does this mean? It implies that the ability to mirror others' emotions—a crucial aspect of empathy—may be impaired in those who hold power. Could this be why those in authority often overlook the needs of the less fortunate?

However, social psychologist Dacher Keltner presents a different viewpoint. He argues that genuine power is rooted in modesty and empathy, rather than coercion. The relationship between power and empathy may be more complex than merely correlational.

Self-awareness plays a vital role in this process, engaging our frontal lobe—responsible for judgment and reasoning. Research indicates that enhancing self-awareness can promote empathy at a neurophysiological level, though the method of engagement is critical.

I tend to believe that we are not solely at the mercy of our brain's wiring.

You might also want to explore Professor Keltner’s comprehensive essay and even take the "Are You Corrupted by Power?" quiz for an interesting self-assessment.

The Fear Factor in Power Dynamics

Now, here's a quirky theory of my own: Is our pursuit of power driven by fear?

Perhaps we operate under the belief that it's a survival of the fittest scenario—either we dominate, or we become prey. This notion ties into a broader theory about human motivation, suggesting that our actions are often influenced by two fundamental emotions: love and fear.

I’m still searching for a definitive answer to this complex question.

In the video "Embrace Your Power | Be Obsessed or Be Average," the speaker discusses the significance of harnessing personal power and the implications of being driven by an obsession for greatness.

The second video, "The Power of Being OBSESSED | Neuroscience Explained," delves into the neuroscience behind obsession and its relationship to power, offering insights into our motivations.