Power (sociology)

Sociologists usually define power as the ability to impose one's Will on others, even if those others resist in some way.

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:"By power is meant that opportunity existing within a social which permits one to carry out one's own will even against resistance and regardless of the basis on which this opportunity rests."

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:, Basic Concepts in Sociology

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The imposition need not involve coercion (force or threat of force). Thus "power" in the sociological sense subsumes both physical power and political power, including many of the types listed at power. In some ways it more closely resembles what everyday English-speakers call "influence".

Related Topics:
Coercion - Political power - English

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More generally, one could define "power" as the more or less unilateral ability (real or perceived) or potential to bring about significant change, usually in people?s lives, through the actions of oneself or of others.

Related Topics:
Change - Lives

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The exercise of power seems endemic to humans as social and gregarious beings.

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