The Four Motions of Power: Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed and Their Implications for Internal Audit

This article explores the ancient Indian strategic framework of Saam, Daam, Dand, and Bhed (Persuasion, Inducement, Punishment, and Division) as fundamental motions of power. For internal audit and assurance professionals, understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating organizational politics, assessing risk, and evaluating the effectiveness of controls. Recognizing these 'motions' helps auditors move beyond superficial analyses to uncover the true drivers of behavior and decision-making within an organization, whether in compliance, culture, or strategic execution.