Essays on Evolutions in the Study of Political Power

The concept of power is one of the few concepts to be widely considered indispensable in all branches of social science. But how do we find out who 'has' power? Under which kinds of empowering conditions is it manifest? For what purposes is it used, and at whose expense or benefit? These are questions to which answers are highly controversial, as are the conceptual models which distinguish power from domination, coercion, influence, manipulation, governance etc. Also, counter-power is needed in order to emancipate society from powerful encroachments on republican freedom and social justice. This collection of essays brings together some of the most prominent protagonists of these ongoing debates. It provides the reader with a balanced and multi-faceted account of where we stand in the analysis of social power. - Claus Offe, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Humboldt University and Hertie School, Berlin These essays come from some of the finest authors writing on power today and cover some of the most important issues. It will be indispensable reading in politics and sociology, law and philosophy, for many years to come. - Philip Pettit, L.S.Rockefeller University Professor of Human Values, Princeton University and Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Australian National University Essays on Evolutions in the Study of Political Power is a goldmine of insights from the cutting edge of power scholarship, penned by the most prominent names in the field. It should be read by anyone interested in the future of power and democracy. - Bent Flyvbjerg, First BT Professor and Inaugural Chair of Major Programme Management, University of Oxford; Villum Kann Rasmussen Professor and Chair, IT University of Copenhagen If you want to know who really governs and how in your community, your nation or in the world system, just read this incredibly well-researched and thoughtful collection of essays! - Pierre Birnbaum, Professor Emeritus of Political Sociology at the University of Paris, Pantheon-Sorbonne