The communication of power conveys the message that the power-holder would rather not realize his avoidance alternative, but is prepared to do so. Negated intention must be made plausible. Research in social psychology, game theory and the theory of deterrence in international relations in particular, has been concerned with the problem of the power-holder's credibility, which is regarded as a significant precondition for power. If there is no credibility, or insufficient information on this matter, a dangerous testing of power ensues, a trying out of readiness, which often causes irreversible developments towards a realization of the avoidance alternatives.

XREF: Connects to deterrence theory in international relations and Schelling's work on credible commitments, where threats only work if believed.

Niklas Luhmann, Trust and Power, loc. 676