Defining Power
The definition of power depends on the context from which one looks at it. Power can be defined from the context of influence over other people or from that of a personal agenda. This essay defines this important component of society using the two contexts of influence and personal agenda.
Using the first context to define power means it is the ability of an individual or organization to exert authority and influence the course of action or activities in which other people or organizations engage (Hodkinson 181). Therefore, power is the ability of one group or individual to influence the other to engage in certain activities or courses of action without use of force or coercion. The subject party obeys the demands directed at them based on their source’s powers.
The second context with which power can be defined is that of personal agendas. Sometimes an individual or organization demands another to engage in certain activities or courses of action in order to benefit from the same. Such dynamic place the subject in a position where they have to meet the demands placed on them meaning the source of such demands is a powerful figure (Hodkinson 183). Similar to the previous context, the subject obeys these instructions or demands without coercion or use of force. Therefore, one common characteristic in the dynamics of power between the subject and an authoritative individual or organization is the ability to obey without feeling coerced or being forced.
Conclusion
Power exists in the society as a factor of the different levels of social endowment, or political and economic ability. Consequently, certain people have the ability to influence others merely because they are higher in a social, economic, or political hierarchy. Similarly, certain people especially in business and political circles are able to exert influence over others for personal agenda.