Why do so many people mistake strength for power?

I think it's a mistake based on popular culture, like an urban myth. They see it, they hear it, they repeat, before long they believe it.

People want to believe a punch is a push, not a snap. I don't think this is only a beginners misconception. I know people who've been in martial arts for a long time who still think that way.

This is a basic question that has been a part of the disciplines of many schools of martial art. The master, Tao Te Ching described the difference between these two below.

"Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power"

-Tao Te Ching

This realization is not as simple as it seems, does not necessarily have to involve physical strength and takes a lot of practice to attain.

I believe the hype presented today in modern media, and children talking, being impressed by bulging muscles has a lot to do with that. Power, as in personal power has little to do with size and/or strength. I am a good size, and I am pretty strong, yet I know several people with less strength and size with equal and more personal power than I possess. Power comes from knowledge, and confidence, and knowing how to use your strength. In reality it is a child's mistake, soon corrected by life experience.

@ Justin Bheiver you again? Forget how to spell John Doe?

Why are you here bothering good people? Go Away.

Because they haven`t seen real power. Getting your *** handed to you by someone 1/2 your size is a great eyeopener. Just keep working on your technique and sound principles. The first time you toss someone around and realize that you hardly touched him you`ll know you`re on the right track.My students think I`m strong as a bull, the truth is I hardly ever have to use much strength because I work them into a position where they can`t use theirs.

It's a natural response in us humans to believe that bigger things are dangerous. Thus, many believe bigger muscles are better.

@Justin: then by your logic, doesn't that mean you're also not a martial artist since you're also answering posts here? Stupid troll.

Because they see brute force being used on TV and sporting events and they have no real training of their own.

theres a difference?