Influence

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Influence is a term that refers to the ability to indirectly control or affect the actions of other people or things. The meaning of influence therefore depends on who or what is being affected, and to what end.

Influence may mean:

• Influence Machine is a type of mechanical device that produces static electricity.
• Social influence derives from an interpersonal relationship.
• Minority influence is when the minority effect the behavior or beliefs of the majority.
• Sphere of influence is the area a state has a level of control over.
• Office of Strategic Influence is a short-lived United States government department.
• Driving under the influence is the criminal act of driving while intoxicated.
• Undue influence is a contract law term arising from parties with unequal bargaining power.

Influence is also a term used in the discussion of:

• Art and Art History, to point to structures (a "style") or imagery (contents) supposed to be related.
• Astrology, where the movement of heavenly bodies is said to influence the daily lives of people.
• Power (sociology), where one person may influence another.
• Power (international), where one state may influence another.
• Political power, a common form of influence.
• Lobbying, an organized effort to influence politicians.
• Bribery, the use of money or similar rewards to influence others.
• Cultural imperialism, when one culture influences another.

• Other references:

Influence was a Dick Tracy comic book villain who wore hypnotic lenses in order to force his victims to do his bidding. Tracy defeated him by hitting him in the face with a loaded walking-stick, shattering his trick eyewear.