Bertram Raven (Psychologist)

Bertram Raven was an American psychologist best known for his research on social power and influence. He identified five bases of power that people use in relationships: legitimate power (authority), reward power (ability to give benefits), coercive power (ability to impose threats), expert power (knowledge and skills), and referent power (desire to be liked or respected). Raven's work helps explain how individuals influence each other in various settings, from personal relationships to business environments, highlighting the dynamics of power and authority in human interactions. His theories remain influential in psychology and organizational behavior.