How is power best defined in the context of advocacy?

In the context of advocacy, power is best defined as the influence to shape decisions affecting lives. This definition captures the essence of advocacy, which aims to promote change and impact policies, systems, or practices that directly influence individuals and communities. Advocacy is often about leveraging influence to ensure that the voices of marginalized or underrepresented groups are heard and that their needs are met within decision-making processes.

This type of power is not merely about who can persuade others or hold authority; instead, it emphasizes the broader impact that advocacy efforts can have on shaping outcomes that significantly affect people's lives. It recognizes that effective advocacy goes beyond just convincing others to agree; it involves rallying support, building coalitions, and strategically influencing decision-makers to act in ways that lead to tangible change.

While aspects like public support or the ability to command a group are important in the context of advocacy, they serve as tools to achieve the deeper goal of impacting lives through informed decisions. Therefore, viewing power through this lens underscores the importance of advocacy in driving social change and improving conditions for individuals and communities.