When we talk about power, we often focus on who has it.

But the more important question is: what does it do to us?

While the Epstein files continue to dominate headlines, most coverage focuses on allegations and those implicated. We’re taking a different approach, examining the role power played and how possessing it changed people in ways that made this kind of behaviour possible.

Grace is joined by Stuart Duff, Chartered Psychologist, Partner and Head of Leadership at Pearn Kandola, to explore the psychology of power – how it is defined, how it shapes behaviour, and how it can distort moral judgement if it is not understood.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

References:

• Cuddy, A. (2017) Presence: Bringing your boldest self to your biggest challenges. London: Orion.
• Deng et al. (2018) When does power trigger approach motivation? Threats and the role of perceived control in the power domain. Social and Personality Compass, 12(5), e12390
• Fiske, S.T. (1993) ‘Controlling other people: The impact of power of stereotyping.’ American Psychologist, 48, 621-28.
• Guinote, A. (2017) ‘How power affects people: Activating, wanting and goal-seeking’. Annul Review of Psychology, 68(1), 353-81.
• Scholl, A. and Sassenberg, K. (2015) ‘Better know when (not) to think twice: How social power impacts pre-factual thought.’ Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 41(2), 159-70.