What type of power is characterized by the theft of intellectual property?

The characteristic that best describes the theft of intellectual property is the negative use of information power. This type of power arises when individuals or entities use information to manipulate, exploit, or harm others instead of benefiting them. Intellectual property theft involves taking someone else's ideas, inventions, designs, or trade secrets without permission, reflecting a misuse of information for unethical or harmful purposes.

In this context, the power dynamics are imbalanced and destructive, as the thief gains an unfair advantage at the expense of the original creator’s rights and potential economic benefit. This situation exemplifies how information can be wielded negatively, undermining trust and innovation within industries and society. Such behavior can lead to legal consequences and damage reputations, reinforcing the notion that power derived from the negative use of information is inherently damaging.