Forthcoming
The Book on
Power
A practical framework for understanding the different forms of power — and how ordinary people can build and wield them to change the world.
The Framework
Power isn't a single thing. It takes at least six distinct forms — moral power, economic power, political power, cultural power, network power, and enforcement power — and each operates by different rules, wielded by different actors, and built through different strategies.
Most people only recognize one or two forms of power, which means they can't see the full landscape of forces shaping their lives. They fight battles they can't win because they're using the wrong tools. They miss opportunities because they don't recognize the power they already have.
This book makes all six forms of power visible. Drawing on history, social science, and decades of practical experience in technology, politics, and organizing, Darcy Burner shows readers how each form of power works, who has it, and — most importantly — how ordinary people can build it.
Written in the tradition of Malcolm Gladwell — taking complex systems and making them not just understandable but actionable.
The Six Forms of Power
Moral Power
The power of legitimacy, narrative, and moral authority. Who gets to define right and wrong?
Economic Power
The power of resources, markets, and financial systems. Who controls the flow of money?
Political Power
The power of governance, law, and institutional authority. Who makes the rules?
Cultural Power
The power of shared meaning, identity, and social norms. Who shapes what people believe?
Network Power
The power of connections, coalitions, and collective action. Who can mobilize people?
Enforcement Power
The power of coercion, compliance, and consequence. Who can compel behavior?
The Workbook
The book shows you how power works. The companion workbook helps you use it.
Designed for individuals and groups, the workbook guides you through mapping the power landscape in your own community, identifying which forms of power are at play in the issues you care about, and developing concrete strategies for building the power you need.
The workbook is the foundation of the bootcamp training program, where communities work through the exercises together with expert facilitation.
Currently With Publishers
The book is fully drafted and being shopped to publishers. Subscribe to be the first to know when it's available.