Food for thought: do you know the Power Paradox and cookie monster study?
The Power Paradox, developed by psychologist Dacher Keltner, explores how the qualities that help people gain power often fade once they have it. It highlights the changes in behavior and personality that occur when people gain power. The paradox highlights the shift in behavior and personality traits that can occur when people assume positions of power. He mentioned that individuals do not typically begin their roles as narcissists. Many rise to power because of qualities like empathy, collaboration, transparency, and generosity. Unfortunately, as they get used to their power, these traits often fade.
One of the key studies illustrating the Power Paradox is the „Cookie Monster“ experiment conducted by Dacher Keltner. Here is a detailed description of the study:
IDEA AND GOAL
In the study, a group of three individuals is brought into a room and given a collaborative task that requires concentration and cooperation. A plate of cookies is placed in front of them with one extra cookie than the number of participants (four cookies for three people). The aim of the study is to observe who takes the last cookie, serving as an indicator of the dynamics of power and behavior within the group.
STUDY DESIGN
At first, each person takes one cookie, leaving the last one, showing politeness. But, it’s usually the highest-ranking person who eventually takes the last cookie. These people also tend to show less polite behavior, like eating with their mouths open and leaving crumbs.
FINDINGS
The study shows that once people gain power, they are more likely to act selfishly and inconsiderately. This contrasts with the traits like empathy and cooperation that often help them rise to power.
"Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely"
- Lord Actonan English historian and moralist. His full name was John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton, and he expressed this sentiment in a letter to Bishop Mandell Creighton in 1887.
My learnings
The Power Paradox shows how power can corrupt people. The traits crucial for gaining power, like empathy and cooperation, often fade once people have power. Instead, they may become more self-centered and less aware of others‘ needs. If you asked people in an organization who is misusing their power, everyone would likely point to the same person(s). As social beings, we are good at sensing these dynamics.
This paradox highlights the importance of self-awareness and ethical leadership. Leaders need to stay vigilant about maintaining their positive qualities and ensure their actions serve the greater good, even as they gain more power.
The good news
In every single situation, we have the power to decide how we want to react. We can choose to be a hero, acting with empathy and integrity, or a Nero, letting power corrupt our behavior and negatively impact those around us. Nero, a Roman Emperor known for his tyrannical rule and cruelty, is often used to symbolize how power can corrupt.
We always have a choice: hero or Nero.
Power inherently involves effective communication and transparency in decision-making. This means being clear about what guides me, upholding high integrity, adhering to clear principles, and acting daily in alignment with these values.
— Tina Weisser
Lets’ bridge theory and bring it into your daily practise: How can you integrate these concepts into your daily leadership practice? Reflect on the following questions:
How do I typically respond when I am in a position of power? Do I notice any changes in my behavior or attitudes towards others?
What qualities helped me achieve my current role, and am I actively working to maintain those traits?
In what ways can I ensure that I use my power and influence responsibly to benefit those around me and foster a positive environment
"The measure of a man is what he does with power"
- Plato
