The Power Paradox: Summary Review
This is a summary review of The Power Paradox containing key details about the book.
What is The Power Paradox About?
"The Power Paradox" explores the relationship between power and leadership, revealing that true power lies in the ability to empower others and make them stronger.
In The Power Paradox, the author reveals the new science of power shows that our Machiavellian view of status is wrong. Influence comes not to those who are ruthless, but to those with social intelligence and empathy. Yet, ironically, the seductions of success lead us to lose those very qualities that made us powerful in the first place. Keltner draws on fascinating case studies to illuminate this 'power paradox', revealing how it shapes not just companies and elections but everyday relationships. As his myth-busting research shows, power - and powerlessness - distorts our behaviour, affecting whether or not we will have an affair, break the law, drive recklessly or find our purpose in life.
Summary Points & Takeaways from The Power Paradox
Some key summary points and takeaways from the book includes:
* The power paradox refers to the fact that power corrupts, but those with power are often unable to recognize it.
* Power can distort perceptions and make individuals more likely to engage in unethical behavior, even if they don't believe themselves to be doing anything wrong.
* People with power tend to be more confident, more impulsive, and more prone to overconfidence, which can lead to poor decision-making.
* Those in power often seek to increase their power, even at the expense of others. This can result in the creation of systems that reinforce power imbalances, such as nepotism, cronyism, and the perpetuation of privilege.
* The solution to the power paradox is to cultivate humility and to acknowledge the limitations and biases that come with power. This requires actively seeking out dissenting perspectives and being open to feedback and criticism.
* Additionally, power should be distributed fairly and accountability should be built into systems, so that those with power are held responsible for their actions.
Who is the author of The Power Paradox?
Dacher Joseph Keltner is a Mexican-born American professor of psychology at University of California, Berkeley, who directs the Berkeley Social Interaction Lab.
Book Details
- Print length: 208 pages
- Genre: Psychology, Nonfiction, Business
What is a good quote from The Power Paradox?
Top Quote: “Money, fame, class, and titles are just symbols, or opportunities, for making a difference. Real power means enhancing the greater good, and your feelings of power will direct you to the exact way you are best equipped to do this.” - The Power Paradox Quotes, Dacher Keltner
What do critics say?
Here's what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “With personal insight and the latest science, Dacher Keltner is both realistic and idealistic: The Power Paradox sheds light on human power’s dark side, as well as its redeeming qualities. Everyone can learn from this wise book.” — Susan T. Fiske, Eugene Higgins Professor of Psychology and Professor of Public Affairs at Princeton University
* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you want to enhance your personal growth, I recommend checking out my list of favorite personal growth books. These books have played a significant role in my life, and each one includes a summary and takeaways to help you apply the concepts.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
