By John Ford

Power has always been a double-edged sword. It can be a force for good, enabling leaders to build, innovate, and uplift. Yet, history is rife with examples of how power—when unchecked—can lead to corruption, harm, and disregard for the well-being of others. From corporate leaders dismissing ethical concerns to governments exploiting their citizens, the challenge of addressing power imbalances is one of humanity's most enduring struggles.

In this post, we’ll explore the tension between holding those in power accountable and maintaining compassion for their humanity. How can we critique harmful actions without falling into judgment? How do we resist corruption without perpetuating cycles of anger and division? And how do we act ethically in the face of systemic power imbalances?

The Corrupting Influence of Power

Philosophers and psychologists alike have long observed that power has a tendency to corrupt. Lord Acton famously said, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Modern research supports this: studies show that power can diminish empathy, amplify self-interest, and lead to unethical behavior.

Examples abound:

Corporate Exploitation: A CEO who prioritizes profits over environmental sustainability or worker welfare may justify their actions as "necessary for growth," ignoring the broader harm caused.
Government Overreach: Leaders who consolidate power often dismiss dissenting voices, eroding democratic institutions in the process.
Personal Arrogance: Public figures who use their platforms to demean or belittle others can create a culture of division and disrespect.

These behaviors are not new, but they remain deeply troubling. They highlight the need for accountability—but accountability that is rooted in discernment rather than blind judgment.

Judgment vs. Discernment

When confronted with harmful actions by those in power, it’s easy to fall into judgment. Judgment often comes from a place of anger or moral superiority, labeling individuals as "bad" or "evil." While this may feel justified in the moment, it often leads to further polarization and shuts down opportunities for constructive change.

Discernment offers an alternative approach. Rather than condemning people outright, discernment focuses on understanding their actions and addressing the harm caused. It allows us to critique behavior without dehumanizing the person behind it.

For example:

A government leader who undermines democratic norms can be held accountable through advocacy and reform without resorting to personal vilification.
A corporate executive whose decisions harm workers can be challenged through boycotts or public pressure while still recognizing their potential for growth and change.

Discernment requires clarity and courage. It asks us to separate the person from the problem—to see harmful actions for what they are while maintaining compassion for the individual.

Compassion Without Enabling

Compassion is often misunderstood as passivity or weakness. In reality, true compassion is both fierce and wise. It involves caring deeply about others while being willing to confront harm when necessary.

The Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön warns against "idiot compassion"—acts of kindness that enable harmful behavior rather than addressing it. For example:

Ignoring a friend’s destructive habits to avoid conflict may feel compassionate in the moment but ultimately perpetuates their suffering.
Allowing powerful figures or institutions to act without accountability out of fear or resignation only reinforces systemic harm.

True compassion balances acceptance with action. It acknowledges the humanity of those causing harm while refusing to condone their behavior. This approach is not easy—it requires us to confront discomfort and act with integrity—but it is essential for meaningful change.

The Role of Accountability

Accountability is a cornerstone of justice. Holding those in power accountable ensures that their actions align with ethical principles and serve the greater good. However, accountability must be pursued thoughtfully:

Focus on Systems: Many harmful actions stem not just from individual choices but from systemic issues (e.g., economic inequality, lack of oversight). Addressing these root causes is often more effective than targeting individuals alone.
Constructive Goals: Accountability should aim not just to punish but to create opportunities for growth and reform. For example, a boycott can push a company toward more ethical practices rather than simply seeking its downfall.
Avoid Dehumanization: Even when holding someone accountable, it’s important to respect their dignity as a human being. This prevents accountability efforts from devolving into cycles of blame and retaliation.

Navigating Power Imbalances

Power imbalances can make it feel like there’s little we can do to challenge corruption or harm. Yet history shows that collective action—rooted in clarity and compassion—can create meaningful change:

Advocate for Transparency: Support policies and practices that promote accountability in governments, corporations, and institutions.
Empower Communities: Build solidarity by educating others about their rights and fostering collective resistance against injustice.
Engage Constructively: Use dialogue and advocacy to raise awareness about harmful behaviors while offering solutions.
Accept Limitations: Recognize that systemic change takes time but commit to acting where you can make an impact.

A Call to Action

The challenge of addressing power imbalances requires us to walk a fine line between resistance and compassion. It asks us to hold those in power accountable while remembering their humanity; to critique harmful systems without losing sight of our shared connection as human beings.

This path is not easy—it requires discernment, courage, and humility—but it is essential if we are to create a more just world. By separating people from problems, balancing acceptance with action, and grounding our efforts in compassion, we can resist corruption without perpetuating cycles of harm.

As Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us:
"Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals." Let this guide us as we navigate the complexities of power, corruption, and justice—with clarity in our minds and compassion in our hearts.