How much does power matter to you?

[Ho-Oh]

You have the power!

I wondered about this the other day when someone mentioned that the upper staff intimidated them, not because the user could be banned randomly, but rather was intimidated due to just having the position of power.

This can apply to not only PC, but real life too. Whether in school - teachers, principals, or someone famous/well known, most people generally look upon those with some sort of power or control differently. It's funny how most of us feel this way, we either look upon those with more power as people to be worshipped or feared, when in reality the fear is only there due to the extent of the power. If you behave and follow the rules, you'll be fine - so one would wonder why the fear is there. As for worshipping, or thinking "highly" of them, if we were in the same positions as them we probably wouldn't feel any different and rather would consider that life to be normal...

So, how do you feel about this?

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?

Share your thoughts!

 

[Oryx]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?

It depends on the person and how well I know them, and the rank they were when I knew them. Even if I knew tangentially of someone on the same level as me, that was then promoted, I would be much less intimidated. Also looking at how they act towards others tends to color it.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?

I think it's because that person was chosen for a reason, and I never quite know the exact reasons. So if I'm not that rank, and they are, it makes me think that I'm lacking something they have and that intimidates me.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?

No, I don't think anyone would. If I'm confused, I can appeal to a higher rank. I don't want to be the end of anything, what if I mess up?

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?

I like running things and leading things. :x I've run a lot of clubs at school, and obviously this position. I feel like I don't act much differently though, as I kind of try to see from the leader's point of view to begin with even before I get the position.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?

Sure! The internet may be virtual, but the people are real. They're still where they are for a reason.

 

[Mew~]

Yeah, I can feel a little intimidated by someone with a lot more power than me, though in terms of this forum, I don't really feel intimidated by the staff, I seem to talk to a few occasionally. I guess I can sometimes if I'm not sure where something goes.

I'm pretty sure a lot of people envy power, you can do some cool stuff given the right position, it can make you feel good.

Everyone given power is just another equality problem. Honestly, I don't mind if you gain a position of power by earning it, but inheriting it is just stupid.

I can't really remember many times of being in any high position. I would say I am a good leader, and I do like to take leadership roles in groups n' what not in school. But other than that, I can't think of anything else.

Power over the internet? Eh, why not. Take a look at the PC staff, obviously they've all gained their positions, and they're good at what they do.

 

[Esper]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?
*image removed*I don't think I do, usually. This is, of course, if they don't have some position of power directly over me like my boss. I definitely look at my boss differently and I know I'm conscious of it. I've had other bosses who I didn't look at differently just because they were cool headed, regular people and didn't act like they were different.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?
*image removed*Well, I think it's just that it sets someone apart in an obvious way. You can't help but notice that there's something that sets them apart (if it's a position you're aware of). I know for me it's also a little of a fear factor if the person could do something that negatively affects me. I watch out for things like that so I notice people who could do anything like that.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?
*image removed*Yeah, probably. At least in some regards. I don't mind, for instance, someone having more skill in an area and deferring to them because of it. I just wouldn't want someone to have arbitrary power.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?
*image removed*Being in charge of anything kind of reinforces my view that I'd rather not make decisions all by myself. I like to have input from other people before I exercise my authority. Not that I can't act on my own, but I like to have guidelines and such. I've pretty much been like that always so I don't think I changed too much.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
*image removed*I don't think there's anything wrong with it if that's how someone feels, but it shouldn't be enforced.

 

[Overlord Drakow]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?

*image removed* Not so much on PC but on DGz I do. As far as the real world is concerned everyone knows I am the greatest power of all I usually treat those in higher positions with respect unless I think they are unworthy of their position of power.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?

*image removed* I've had a couple of bad encounters with the admins of DGz in the past so I was cautious of them for a while. It's all good now though. As far as the real world goes, I generally have at least a mutual admiration for the people with power.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?

*image removed* Not everyone is suited to wielding power effectively.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?

*image removed* I used to rule over a small YGO forum but things were not too different from when I was a member. I sometimes help train the younger students at the Karate dojo and there's obviously a big difference in training and teaching.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
*image removed* People are given power for a reason so it shouldn't matter whether we're dealing with the internet or real life.

 

[Melody]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?
Not really. They're people to me too, and like everyone else they have a set of expectations to match their position. I don't fear power.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?
Doesn't matter. It isn't an instinct really, it depends on the situation and such...so it's a learned behavior. As for the reasons, there are as many as there are people on this world if not more!

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?
I would indeed enjoy a pure democracy if it could be achieved; but reasonably speaking a pure democracy loses it's effectiveness when large numbers are involved.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?
Nothing changed. I do what I must to complete my task.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
Yes. Those who wield powers of censorship and restraint on the internet have a great responsibility. I expect them to wield it expertly and fairly, and I don't find it unfair if someone expects the same of me when I hold the power.

 

[Taemin]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?
Uuuum, I look up to them, though a lot of the time it's not really something that I think about. Actually, I'm the opposite of being intimidated. When I am then it's got something to with the person themselves, and not how much power they have. I actually get along better with people who hold more power, because for some reason I'm more comfortable around them. Its like when I was going to school I got along well with the teachers when others hated them, or at work some of my favorite people to talk with are the store directors. xD; Or on here I'm more comfortable talking with Andy, or David, etc, rather than talking with others.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?
With me, I wouldn't think it's envy or anything. It's more of a fear if (like I said) that one person happens to seem intimidating, but that'd have nothing to do with a power position. A regular member can be more intimidating to me than an admin, for all I know.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?
Noooo. There's definitely the expression of "Too many chiefs and not enough Indians".

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?
It doesn't really change my mindset too much, besides the fact that I know that I have responsibilities on me that I usually wouldn't have. Though in general as a person, it wouldn't do much but possibly boost my confidence a little.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
I wouldn't judge it just because it's the internet. No matter where you hold power, the fact that you do proves something, in my opinion. Aaaaaaaand I would explain this, but I'm rushing this entire post when I should be getting ready for work. Might edit this later.
-runs!- xD;

 

[Aquacorde]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?

I don't really view people differently based on their position. I think-- wait next question.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?

I think the reason I don't think of them any differently is that I differentiate between their job/seniority/importance level/etc and them as a person. Like... I make note of what they are, but I concentrate more on who they are, if that makes sense. And I've never been afraid of authority lol. I was friends with all my teachers but failed their classes hard, and they still liked me. That's kind of how I learned to differentiate- there were two relationships there. One of teacher/administrator/ISS supervisor and student, and one of Savannah and Ms. Schulie or whoever else.
Basically, people are people, whatever else they may be in addition.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?

Nah, 'cause then nobody would get anything done. There has to be some idea that one has to listen to certain people in order to get a good grade, get paid, not be banned, etc.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?

Not that I know of. Well, maybe? Babysitting and being the oldest of a multitude of cousins and siblings as well as being a math tutor for special ed kids for a while. I didn't really get much insight from it other than what I already knew- don't abuse the power you have over the people, don't treat them as if they are beneath you, etc. Oh and I run lots of clubs here. I'm good about keeping things updated and on-topic, but I'm just one of the people there. A club owner is just another member of the club with responsibility, not really anyone with power.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?

Power is power anywhere. Do you really love and enjoy PC? Well then you probably should be respectful of the staff and follow the rules, lest you get banned. Do you care about your grades? Then do your work and don't aggravate your teachers. Do you want to keep your job? Do it well and don't snark off to your boss. It's basically all the same concept. Of course, those examples only consider the formal relationship between two parties.

Really the thing is that people define others by their position. Ever heard things like "teachers are people too"? It's completely true. Forum staff, teachers, your bosses- they are those, certainly, but first and foremost they are people.

NO IDEA IF HALF OF THIS IS EVEN RELEVANT I AM TOO BUSY FANGIRLING OVER BEST WISHES OK

 

[PlatinumDude]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?:

I respect the decisions of those who are in power.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?:

It's because I'm scared of their potential.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?:

There would be a massive conflict on whoever gets to control what.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?:

Other than being a mod at a forum, no. Nothing changed in terms of my mindset.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?:

Viewing those with power differently is the same for the Internet and in the real world because there are rules in both places.

 

[Pokemon Trainer Touko]

Higher staff can randomly ban people?! DDD:

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?
*image removed* I get intimidated by people really easily online, especially on PC. I was afraid of all of the moderators on PC when I first joined because they were ignoring me ;~;

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?
*image removed* I don't envy their power or anything like that I'm just scared of them because they can easily ban me or make my life on PC miserable.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?
*image removed*

Not everyone is suited to wielding power effectively.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?
*image removed* I've been the school counselor since year 6 aand I don't think it changed my mindset at all o3o

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
*image removed* Idk never thought about it before. .3.

 

[Althea]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?

Sort of. I tend to regard strangers with indifference until I get to know them, and that doesn't really change, but I'm a little more...avoidant of those in power, I guess? As in, if we had a lot of common interests, I wouldn't approach them, whereas I might with any other stranger. That's about as far as it really goes. I'm reluctant to talk to those in power unless they talk to me first.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?

Eh, I guess it's because I feel like I'm making a nuisance of myself if I do; they're not going to want to converse with someone like me, and if they do, they'll approach me first. I'm not particularly fearful or envious or anything like that, I just figure that they'll pick their own friends, and if I'm not among that group, so be it.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?

No, and I can't imagine something like that ever happening in society anyway, there are always going to be those who are favoured above others, and for once I don't think this is such a bad thing. Some are equipped to handle power, and some aren't, and power is something that should be earned, not something people can just expect to have.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?

I have, and I don't think it really changed my perspective too much. Even if I'm not officially given a leadership position, I tend to contribute a great deal to discussions and activities if I have ideas; I'm quite capable of asserting myself without the "official" position and recognition, and I don't really feel the need to "take charge" even if I am in that position, not unless we're in a circular discussion and/or need things clarified, and I'd do that anyway.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?

Well, it depends on the people in power and the community they're on, I think. Obviously these people ARE different to some degree, because they have control over what goes on, but the extent to which that should affect interaction with them varies between communities and individuals. For the most part, mods and admins I've gotten to know personally tend to be more detached than other people I know are, and I'm not sure I'd say I was friends with a lot of them, even if we do get along quite well. I would say it is appropriate in part, because power is power, be it virtual or otherwise. Admins and mods can ban your ass if they choose to, after all.

 

[Kevin]

Do you look upon people in positions of "power" (or influence) differently than you view everyone else? If so, is it subconscious, aka something in the back of your mind, or rather something you're aware of and don't really think of it any different to regard those people differently?
I look upon them differently since I don't want to be in any type of trouble with the staff, or else I could be infracted or banned.

What do you think the reason for this? Is it that you or others may envy their position, are fearful of their potential or is it just something inbuilt into the human psyche?
Uh.... I just don't want to be banned.

Would you rather if everyone in this world had even "power" aka pure democracy and everyone was treated and seen as the same, even if they were well known?
Sure... I don't really care to be honest.

Have you ever been in a position of power, control or influence in a sense? Whether at a job, a school role, PC, etc, did you see things differently from being in that position or did nothing change in terms of your mindset?
Hm... I don't think being a Supporter on PC counts, does it? I've been on staff on tons of other forums, so yeah. There was this thing I used to do in middle school, NJHS, where everyone would think you're smart since you're in it.

Do you feel that having this sort of mindset of viewing those with power differently is appropriate for the Internet, when you consider that the extent of control is only virtual?
Uhhh.... I don't understand Never thought about it.