Dimensions of Power Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are the dimensions of power?

Ability to carry out one person's or group's will, even in the presence of resistance or opposition from others.

What does one-dimensional power according to Weber entail?

A has power over B when A can get B to do something that B wouldn't otherwise do.

Give an example of one-dimensional power.

Person with power is the person who prevails in the decision-making process; overt communication and observable conflict.

What is the main aspect of two-dimensional power according to Bacharach and Baratz?

Shaping the agenda is an important source of power. Signup and view all the answers

What does two-dimensional power describe?

It's possible to influence decisions by shaping the agenda; overt concert communication and observable conflict. Signup and view all the answers

What does the three-dimensional idea of power by Lukes suggest?

People sometimes willingly act in ways that appear contrary to their most basic interests. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the three-dimensional view of power?

Set of ways in which the powerful transforms the powerless in such a way that the powerless behave as the powerful wish. Signup and view all the answers

How does the three-dimensional aspect of power work?

By creating a persuasive system of ideology and false consciousness. Signup and view all the answers

What does the three-dimensional view of power focus on?

Political agenda, current and potential issues; observable and latent conflict; power without coercion/forcible constraint. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dimensions of Power

Power is the ability to impose one's will over others, despite resistance or opposition.
One-dimensional power, as defined by Weber, occurs when one individual (A) can compel another (B) to act against their own will.
A clear example of one-dimensional power is when a person with authority wins a decision-making process through direct communication and visible conflict.

Two-Dimensional Power

Two-dimensional power, introduced by Bacharach and Baratz, emphasizes that shaping the agenda is a significant power source.
Influence can be exerted by defining what issues are addressed, allowing for overt communication and observable conflict.

Three-Dimensional Power

The three-dimensional concept, developed by Lukes, highlights that individuals may act against their own interests under the influence of powerful individuals or systems.
This dimension describes the transformation of the powerless so that they align their behaviors with the desires of the powerful.
It operates through a persuasive ideology, often creating a false consciousness that obscures the true nature of one's interests.

Key Features of Three-Dimensional Power

Focuses on political agendas and addresses both current and potential issues.
Involves both observable and latent conflicts and examines the presence of power without coercion or force.

Description

Explore the key concepts related to the dimensions of power with these flashcards. Understand the definitions and examples of one-dimensional power as described by Weber. Perfect for students studying sociology or political science.