UNIT 1 POWER

Question 1

What is power (2 BASIC ASSUMPTIONS) and the criticisms of the two basic assumptions of power ?

Answer 1

(a) power is an attribute of individuals which is exercised over other individuals.
(Challenge - Power at a collective level such as in structures as stated by Marxists and feminists)
(b) power is domination over others, that is, power is used to make others do what one
wants, against their own will.
(Viewing power not simply as domination; that is, not only as power over but as power to—power as an enhanced capacity
emerging from collective action. In this sense, power can be something that is used as a basis to act as a responsible moral citizen)

Question 2

Zero sum conception ?

Answer 2

Finite Power
One individual or group has more power over another
eg. 100 units of power - 70 with one, 30 with another
The chance of a man or a number of men to realize their own will in a communal action even against the resistance of others who are participating in the action’​ - MAX WEBER
Mills - Dominant society controls the fate of the rate
Feminism and Marxism - Power as exploitation

Question 3

Variable sum conception of power /

Answer 3

Power is not finite and can change
Talcott Parson - Criticism of zero sum conception
Amount of power in society can increase or decrease.