POWER

Power is the ability to control the actions of others through the possession of means of sanctions. By exercising power, others may be forced to change their actions against their will and to compel obedience on their part. It can also be viewed as the ability to control the actions of others irrespective of their wishes, Sanction could be physical social, political or economic. It is an instrument of power which is used to influence the action of others, it is applied when there is non-compliance.

POWER

. It is the ability to enforce decisions or command through the possession of means of sanctions. It seeks to compel people to obey rules. Sanctions or punishments are often applied for non-compliance.

 

Forms/Types of power

1.    Political power: this is the type of power that is exercised by the government in the running of the affairs of the state. Decisions made through this type of power are binding on the state. Power resides in the three arms of government and is derived from the constitution.

2.    Physical power: this type is often referred to as naked power. It involves the use of force to compel people to obey. The police, security services etc use this type of power and it often times may cause pain, injury or death.

3.    Military power: military power can be used to forcefully overthrow a government, quell riots and defend the internal and external territory of a state.

4.    Economic power: this type of power involves the use of economic resources at one’s disposal to control the actions of others. Rich men exercise economic power over the poor by influencing government policies to suit them.

SOURCES OF POWER

1.    The Constitution: in democratic states, the constitution confers power on an individual through the ballot box.

2.    Through Inheritance: in most societies, this is a common means of acquiring power. Those born in royal families have the right to ascend into power and this gives them some elements of power.

3.    Coercion/Force: Power can be obtained through the use of force especially the military. In Africa for example, political power is derived by the military by over-throwing a government through what is known as coup d’état.

4.    The use of Charisma: Power is conferred on many people through their personal qualities and influence. Such people have the zeal and charismatic attributes of a leader. E.g. Nelson Mandela of South Africa, Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo of Nigeria and Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana.

5.    Position of authority: Those who possess expert knowledge in various aspects of human life, exercise power over those who do not have. Such power ceases to exist when such a person vacates the office.

6.    Wealth: Those that control economic resources use such advantage to acquire power. This is in line with the principle of economic determinism.