Hegemony

Hegemony is the dominance of one group over other groups, with or without the threat of force, to the extent that, for instance, the dominant party can dictate the terms of trade to its advantage; more broadly, cultural perspectives become skewed to favor the dominant group.

Theories of hegemony

Theories of hegemony attempt to explain how dominant groups or individuals (known as hegemons) can maintain their power -- the capacity of dominant classes to persuade subordinate ones to accept, adopt and internalize their values and norms.

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Antonio Gramsci devised one of the best-known accounts of hegemony. His theory defined the State by its coercion combined with hegemony; according to Gramsci, hegemony consists of political power that flows from intellectual and moral leadership, authority or consensus, as distinguished from mere armed force.

Related Topics:
Antonio Gramsci - State - Coercion - Leadership - Consensus

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Recently critical theorists Ernesto Laclau and Chantal Mouffe have re-defined the term "hegemony".

Related Topics:
Critical theorists - Ernesto Laclau - Chantal Mouffe

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