When the definition of power includes the “ability to exert influence,” then you’re also describing an element of leadership: knowledge. Take, for example, Ann Landers.

Ann Landers is a pen name invented by Chicago Times columnist Ruth Crowley in 1943 and taken over by Eppie Lederer in 1955. For 56 years, the “Ask Ann Landers” syndicated advice column was a regular feature in many newspapers across North America. A few months after Lederer took over the column, her twin sister, Pauline Phillips, started her own column calling it “Dear Abby.” Through the years millions of readers have read thousands of columns.

Then add the many other advice-givers in print and broadcast media, throw in celebrities’ endorsements of products and political candidates, and add it to an educational system that credentials experts, and the sum is a civilization intent on yielding authority to knowledge givers.

Indeed, being in the know adds depth, credibility, and authority to your place of power. Nothing builds confidence like being in the know, like being proven to be correct.

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