Richard Edelman is a renowned public relations expert and founder of the Edelman communication firm. He often shares insights on how societal structures are changing, particularly in terms of power dynamics and influence.

In one of his observations, Edelman noted that the traditional hierarchical structure has undergone a significant transformation. Historically, authority figures at the top of an organization held all the cards. They made decisions, set policies, and directed the flow of information down to lower levels within their organizations or societies.

However, in recent years, this system has shifted dramatically. Imagine a pyramid that once stood tall with its apex pointing towards the sky. Now, it's been flipped over so that its base is facing up, resting on what was previously the top. This change reflects how power and influence have diffused to middle-level individuals within organizations or communities.

These mid-level people are no longer just passive recipients of directives from above. Instead, they actively engage with their peers across different sectors and levels. They share ideas, challenge norms, and drive innovation through direct communication networks that bypass traditional hierarchical chains of command.

Edelman emphasizes that in this new landscape, success often hinges on gaining the support of these influential mid-level figures. Their endorsement can be crucial for any initiative or idea to gain traction and succeed. This shift highlights a broader trend towards decentralized influence where the voices at various levels contribute significantly to shaping outcomes rather than just those at the very top.

This transformation underscores the importance of building relationships and understanding across different layers within organizations and societies, reflecting a more collaborative approach to leadership and decision-making in our interconnected world.