Lexicon: Potentia (vs. Potestas)

The Etymology

Latin. Both words translate to "Power," but they describe two different physical realities.

• Potestas: Power over. It is political power, authority, jurisdiction, and the power restrained by laws. (The Judge, The King).
• Potentia: Power to. It is the raw capacity to act, to exist, and to affect the world. (The Fire, The Wind, The Genius).

The Definition

For Spinoza, God (Nature) is pure Potentia. It is the infinite energy that drives the universe. In human terms, Potentia is your actual capability. It is your voltage. Potestas, on the other hand, is a social fiction. It is the badge you wear.

• A King has high Potestas (He can order an execution) but might have low Potentia (He is weak, sick, or stupid).
• A Revolutionary might have zero Potestas (No title) but massive Potentia (The ability to move millions).

The Corporate Application

The Chief Wise Officer uses this distinction to diagnose leadership failure. Most corporate hierarchies are built on Potestas (Titles).

• "I am the VP, so you must listen to me." This works when things are stable. But in a crisis, Potestas evaporates.

The Leadership Test: If we took away your title, your budget, and your firing power tomorrow, would anyone still follow you?

• If the answer is No, you only had Potestas. You were a bureaucrat.
• If the answer is Yes, you have Potentia. You are a leader.

Strategic Advice: Hire for Potentia (What can they actually do? How much energy do they generate?). Too often, we hire for Potestas (What companies did they work for? What was their previous title?). Potestas allows you to manage the status quo. Only Potentia allows you to change it.