New Power: How Power Works in Our Hyperconnected World—and How to Make It Work for You

Imagine a world where power is no longer a treasure locked away in the hands of a few but a vibrant, flowing current that anyone can tap into. This is the essence of new power—a transformation from exclusivity to inclusivity, from hoarding to sharing. Power, as Bertrand Russell defined it, is the ability to produce intended effects. Today, that ability is more widely distributed than ever before, thanks to technology and shifting human behaviors.

In the past, power resembled a currency. It was held tightly by elites—whether political leaders, media moguls, or industry titans—who spent it carefully to maintain their status and influence. This old power was closed, leader-driven, and demanded compliance or consumption from the masses. Think of the Hollywood mogul who could make or break careers behind closed doors, wielding his power like a king.

Contrast this with new power, which flows like a current—open, participatory, and peer-driven. It surges when millions come together, sharing ideas, creating content, and building communities. This power is not about hoarding but channeling energy. Movements like #MeToo exemplify new power’s force. What began as a single hashtag quickly became a global wave, empowering millions to share their stories and challenge entrenched systems of abuse. This movement had no central leader, no formal organization, yet its impact was profound and far-reaching.

The shift from old to new power is not merely technological; it is deeply cultural and behavioral. People today expect agency and participation. They want to be creators, not just consumers. This shift challenges traditional institutions to adapt or risk obsolescence.

As we journey through this audiobook, we will explore how this new power paradigm shapes communities, movements, workplaces, and society at large. We will uncover strategies to build and sustain crowds, understand the dynamics of participation, and envision a future where power is more distributed and democratic.

Let us now move forward to understand how these new power communities form, thrive, and sometimes falter in this rapidly evolving landscape.