View source for Bases of Social Power

== What are the Bases of Social Power? ==
The '''bases of social power''' are sources of influence that individuals or groups may use to affect the behavior or thoughts of others. These bases of power are often classified into six categories, which were identified and described by social psychologist John French and organizational psychologist Bertram Raven in the 1950s:
*Coercive power: This type of power is based on the ability to punish or reward others in order to influence their behavior.
*Reward power: This type of power is based on the ability to provide positive incentives or rewards to others in order to influence their behavior.
*Legitimate power: This type of power is based on the belief that a person has the right to make decisions or give orders, due to their position or authority in an organization or group.
*Expert power: This type of power is based on the possession of specialized knowledge or skills that are valued by others.
*Referent power: This type of power is based on the personal charisma or attractiveness of an individual, which can inspire admiration and a desire to be like them.
*Information power: This type of power is based on the possession of valuable information that others do not have, or the ability to access or control the flow of information to others.
These bases of social power can be used by individuals or groups in a variety of settings, including in the workplace, in social relationships, and in political or civic organizations. The use of social power can be positive or negative, depending on how it is exercised and the intentions of the person using it.


== See Also ==
[[Confirmation Bias]]


== References ==
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