In order to begin this investigation, it is first helpful to consider what is meant by power in the organization. Boe (2004) in his examination of power reports that, 'One can say that in organizational terms power is the ability to get things done, to produce change. 'Power is the ability to effectively manipulate or control a situation of a person. Power involves changing behavior and can be a source of leadership' (p. 140). While there are

Power and Politics Compared and Contrasted

With respect to the external environment of the organization, Enron was able to utilize its collective power as an energy giant to manipulate shareholders, customers and even the government. In this context, Kriz points to the political savvy of the organization in dealing with heavy criticism from external sources. Even though the organization faced notable obstacles when it came to shareholders, leaders of the organization were able to utilize internal power resources to shape the external politics of the organization. If the organization had not been so successful at using power and politics, it would not have been able to engage in corporate deception for such an extended period of time.

How Power and Politics Impact the Organization

Although the definitions of power and politics presented here appear to be notably different, Walumbwa (1999) asserts that the differences that exist between these two terms are relatively subtle. According to this author, power and politics are more similar than different. In particular, this author maintains that, ''While the terms 'power' and 'politics' may mean different things to different people, one point is consistent in most definitions ''the ability to influence" (p. 206). As such, power and politics are both mitigated by influence which ultimately shapes how organizational development occurs and the specific actions that are taken by leaders and managers.

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