How and why influence is gained and maintained has undergone a fundamental transformation.Many contemporary thinkers have sensed a change in the air - a movement away from some of the deep seated leadership patterns established over the last several decades. Among these patterns, Miller illustrates the concept of influence: the underlying, foundational values of its traditional definition; how that definition has affected society; and how a new definition with new values can produce positive change for individuals, communities, businesses, and cultures.

The author shows that influence based on Position, Possessions, and Pedigree produces nothing more than the status quo, a static semblance of success, while influence based on Community, Character, and Choice lifts leadership to the level of productive, organic, and lasting change.