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Abraham Lincoln once remarked, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” This sentiment encapsulates a fundamental truth: the measure of an individual often lies not in their abilities alone, but in how they wield the power and influence entrusted to them. Never in history this contrast was more visible than in the 20th century when Gandhi and Hitler exited and wielded power entrusted to them in as opposite ways as there can be.

Gandhi, with his commitment to nonviolent resistance, utilised his influence to liberate India from colonial rule, demonstrating that moral authority and compassionate leadership could achieve monumental societal change. In stark contrast, Hitler’s totalitarian regime exemplified the darkest depths of power’s potential for devastation, unleashing genocide and global conflict that scarred the course of history.

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Relationship Between Man and Power

Power has been the central concept of human evolution. Power, in its different forms, holds diverse meanings and implications depending on the context and the individuals involved. Nietzsche’s “Will to Power” concept states that power is the main driving force in humans, influencing behaviour and societal structures. For some, like elected officials, it symbolises the mandate to enact laws and policies for the collective good. On the other hand, authoritarian regimes show how unchecked political power can lead to oppression and human rights abuses.

In the economic sphere, philanthropists like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates have leveraged their wealth to support global health initiatives, illustrating the positive potential of economic power. However, economic inequality remains a stark issue, highlighting how disparities in wealth can perpetuate social divisions and limit opportunities for marginalised communities. Similarly, in the social construct, power dynamics within caste or class systems often reinforce inequality and hinder individual opportunities. Yet, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. exemplify how social power, when guided by moral leadership, can challenge and transform unjust systems, demonstrating the profound societal impact of ethical leadership.

Power thus, in general terms, can be understood as the ability to influence others’ thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It encompasses persuasion, manipulation, and charismatic leadership. It manifests in multifaceted ways, shaping relationships, institutions, and societies. Further, the ethical use of power reflects principles of fairness, justice, and responsibility. Utilitarian leaders like Winston Churchill made decisions based on the greatest good for the greatest number, while deontologists like Immanuel Kant emphasised duty and principles over outcomes.

Power enables individuals to exert influence and effect substantial change in their spheres of influence. It often grants autonomy and freedom to pursue one’s goals and ideals without undue constraints. For example, entrepreneurs like Elon Musk leverage their influence to pioneer space exploration and sustainable energy solutions, demonstrating how power can facilitate bold initiatives and breakthrough innovations that transcend conventional boundaries and inspiring many to follow his steps.

Apart from that, power is necessary for having a sense of security and stability. It brings with itself prestige and recognition. Authoritarian regimes sometimes justify their grip on power as necessary for national security and social order, as seen in quotes from leaders such as Augusto Pinochet. However, the trade-off between security and personal liberties underscores the ethical dilemmas inherent in such assertions of power.

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The Different Sides of Power

However, the most important values that follow power are responsibility and accountability. In the context of leaders holding massive power and responsibility that comes along with it, Nelson Mandela quotes “It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”

It is equally important to discuss the impact of not having enough power as it is to have it. When individuals are deprived of power, the consequences can manifest in various ways, impacting their personal, social, and economic well-being. Deprivation of power can lead to feelings of disenfranchisement, marginalisation, and diminished self-worth. Individuals who lack social or political power may experience exclusion and discrimination, affecting their mental health and sense of belonging. For example, marginalised communities like LGBTQ, migrants, refuges, etc. often face systemic barriers that restrict access to resources and opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and social inequality.

Deprivation of political power denies individuals the ability to participate in decision-making processes and advocate for their interests. The Arab Spring uprisings in countries like Egypt and Tunisia underscored how political exclusion and lack of representation can fuel mass protests and demands for democratic reforms. Further, accountability and transparency are crucial to ensure that power is used responsibly and does not lead to abuse. As Winston Churchill observed, “The price of greatness is responsibility.” Effective leaders and institutions must be accountable for their actions to maintain legitimacy and trust.

Moreover,empathy and relatability should be crucial pillars when exercising power. Power without empathy can lead to neglect and harm, as seen in the controversial policies of some political leaders who prioritised economic growth over environmental and social welfare. Power combined with empathy and compassion, on the other hand can foster inclusive leadership and social cohesion.The humanitarian approach of figures like Mother Teresa, who used her influence to alleviate the suffering of the poor and marginalised, exemplifies how power coupled with compassion can affect positive social change.

Even the loss of power can have profound psychological consequences, affecting individuals’ self-esteem, mental health, and sense of agency. Studies on the psychological effects of unemployment, for instance, demonstrate heightened levels of stress, depression, and anxiety among individuals who experience economic disempowerment. Powerlessness can leave individuals vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and violations of their legal and human rights. For instance, the #MeToo movement shed light on widespread sexual harassment and assault, revealing how power imbalances in workplaces and society enable perpetrators to abuse their positions of authority with impunity.

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Man and Power: In Conjunction With Other Values

Power, when considered in isolation, does not constitute a complete value system; rather, its impact and ethical significance are contingent upon its alignment with other values and principles. Ethical values such as justice, compassion, and integrity provide critical frameworks for evaluating the use of power. During the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, Martin Luther King Jr. advocated for nonviolent resistance and equality, aligning power with ethical principles to challenge systemic racism.

Values such as empathy, trust, and self-awareness influence how power dynamics unfold in interpersonal relationships and societal structures. Studies on leadership styles reveal that leaders who prioritise empathy and collaboration, like Gandhi, Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, etc. foster trust and unity among diverse groups. Conversely, leaders who lack emotional intelligence or exhibit narcissistic tendencies may abuse their power, leading to distrust and division within organisations. Thus, power, when coupled with ethical values, can lead to positive outcomes. On the other hand, unethical use of power can lead to exploitation and harm to individuals and communities.

In the contemporary world, we can assume that the concept of power has evolved significantly from traditional forms, moving beyond mere authority and dominance to encompass notions of inclusivity, responsibility, and constructive impact. Traditional power often emphasised hierarchical control and centralised authority.

However, in today’s interconnected global landscape, power is increasingly defined by collaboration, influence, and the ability to effect positive change across diverse stakeholders.it is of prime importance that power is exercised in a positive, constructive, inclusive, and responsible manner to foster sustainable development and societal well-being. India’s “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” (Clean India Mission) is a recent example where governmental power is used constructively to improve sanitation and public health. This initiative demonstrates how power can address pressing societal issues through inclusive and community-driven efforts. 

Responsible exercise of power involves accountability for actions and decisions, prioritising long-term societal benefits over short-term gains. At the same time, inclusive power recognizes and values diverse perspectives and voices, ensuring representation and participation from all segments of society. Maggie Kuhn aptly put it, “Power should not be concentrated in the hands of so few, and powerlessness in the hands of so many.” This signifies the importance of distributing power equitably and leveraging it for the collective good of humanity.

Also, inclusive governance is vital for ensuring that power benefits all segments of society. The Indian government’s focus on increasing women’s representation in political processes is a step in this direction. The introduction of the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, which aims to reserve a significant percentage of legislative seats for women, reflects an effort to make governance more inclusive. Empowering women with the right to exercise wilful and informed power thus, is not just a matter of gender equality but a step towards comprehensive national development.

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By embracing values like responsibility, inclusivity, accountability, etc. along with power, individuals and institutions can harness power to effect positive change, promote social equity, and address global challenges in ways that resonate with both present needs and future aspirations. In this regard, a lesson can be learnt from Mahabharata.

As Arjuna hesitates on the battlefield, torn by moral dilemmas and the prospect of war, Krishna imparts wisdom on duty, righteousness, and the nature of selfless action. Krishna’s guidance inspires Arjuna to fulfil his role as a warrior, emphasising the ethical exercise of power in service of greater principles. We can learn from this timeless teaching that emphasises the moral and ethical responsibilities inherent in wielding influence and power, ensuring that power serves as a force for unity, justice, and human flourishing.

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