4-41. Influence involves altering the opinions; attitudes; and, ultimately, the behaviors of the host-nation population—friendly, neutral, and adversarial—and other actors through information operations, presence, and conduct. Influence applies nonlethal capabilities to complement and reinforce the compelling and controlling effects of stability mechanisms. Influence strives to effect behavioral change through nonlethal means. It is more a result of public perception of legitimacy and trust than a measure of operational success. It reflects the ability of military forces to operate successfully among the population of a host nation, interacting with the population while consistently adhering to the moral principles of the Army Ethic to accomplish the mission. Here, consistency of actions and messages is vital. Influence requires legitimacy. Military forces earn the trust and confidence of a population through the constructive capabilities inherent in the ethical application of combat power. Positive influence is absolutely necessary to achieve lasting control and compliance. It contributes to success across the lines of effort and engenders support among the population. Once attained, military forces best maintain influence by consistently demonstrating the moral-ethical principles of the Army Ethic by exhibiting respect for, and operating within, the cultural and societal norms of the local population.