Question

2. What is social influence and social power? Can they be dangerous? When and under what circumstances? Give examples.

Answer 1

Social influence occurs when an individual's emotions, opinions, or behaviors are affected by others. Social power, on the other hand, is the potential for social influence and comprises the available tools one has to exert influence over another. The type of social power used to influence others often depends on an individual's intentions. Sometimes, powerful individuals seeking their selfish interests can the kind of influence to manipulate others. They may choose certain types of influences based on considerations of potential effectiveness and other factors. In this sense, social influence and social power can be very dangerous. For instance, communist leader Stalin gained exponential power and enforced regulations that caused detriment to his citizens bt ensured that his position remained intact.