A Quantitative Model of the Amplification of Power through Order and Implications for Defense against Hijackings

Abstract

I propose a simple quantitative model of how the power of a leader over a group is amplified when he or she starts to order the group. This model implies that a small well-informed minority can easily govern a previously ordered majority such as hijacked passengers. The model suggests the importance of a new concept, “group defense” that may be helpful in preventing fatal hijackings such as the ones that occurred on September 11.

Author

• Tarnow, Eugen Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University