Saurabh SharmaAIR 23 · CSE 2023 · 178 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
Weber defines power as 'ability to coerce others to act as per one's own will in a communal action. Weber gave zero sum approach to power which was later put to question by Parsons.
(Power)A + (Power)B = constant
weberian framework of power
Weber says that power exercised by someone is necessarily at cost of others. State has legitimate right over using violent means.
Moreover Weber presented ideal type of power and authority This zero/constant sum approach to power is reflected in theory of "Circulation of Elite"
Body · points and prose
smatic
- legal rational
This zero/constant sum approach to power is reflected in theory of "Circulation of Elite"
Parsons, a functionalist gave Variable sum approach to power:
- The quantum of power keep changing subject to collective welfare present in society.
- Those who are present in powerful position are mere representative and are supposed to act in interest of those who have chosen them.
- Exercise of power is a reflection of value consensus.
Close · a summary
Pluralist view of power given by Dahl [Manheim] builds upon Parsonian view that power is well distributed in society. Thus, the view of both Parsons and weber has enriched the sociological understanding of power.