The Different Kinds of Power, Essay Example

Describe and discuss the different kinds of power. Are some types of power more likely to result in ethical behavior than others based upon studies from the book and your own analysis?

The two broad categories of power are formal power and personal power. Formal power is subdivided into coercive power, reward power, and legitimate power, while personal power is subdivided into expert power and referent power. Coercive power is achieved when the leader makes individuals feel that if they do not do something properly, they will be punished for it. Reward power is achieved when the leader makes individuals feel that if they do something, they will be rewarded for it. Legitimate power is achieved when the leader is recognized as someone who has the ultimate authority. Expert power is achieved when the leader is respected due to their knowledge or experience in a particular area. Referent power comes from being trusted and respected.

Some types of power more likely to result in ethical behavior than others. Legitimate power is one of these examples because the person in charge is in a position where maximizing worker happiness will contribute directly to the success of his or her company. In addition leaders with referent power are more likely to be ethical because they typically achieve their power from ethical behavior to begin with.