Steven Lukes Theory Of Power Essay

“Where does power lie in EITHER the UK OR the US? Where should it lie? Answer with reference to Steven Lukes’s theory of power as described in Power: A Radical View. “

Introduction
Scruton defines power as ‘the ability to achieve whatever effect is desired, whether or not in the face of opposition (Scruton, 1982, p.366).’ Whereas Robertson defines power as ‘the ability of A to get B to do something they would not choose to do (Robertson, 1993, p.393).’ Marxists might define power as the ownership and control over productive property, something that affords the bourgeoisie dominance over the superstructure (Marx, 1859). Although these definitions are very useful Steven Lukes offers a three dimensional vision of power. These three facets of power include positive decision making, the determination and control of the agenda and a more hidden constituent which involves the ability to promote the values which are contrary to the self interest of those who hold them. Lukes refers to these as ‘conceptual maps’ (Lukes, 2005, p.15). Whilst Lukes’s radical view of power is useful in the analysis of power and finding its location, such analysis is unlikely to foster much in the way of change. The question of where power lies in the United States of America and where is should lie are steeped in ideology and do not appear to be as controversial as one might expect. However, it is often those observers from outside the United States who appear most keen on radical reform. The European left with its democratic and redistributing tendencies find the degree of inequality in the United States as something ripe for change.

Lukes’s Definition of Power and Critique
Decision Making
The first aspect of power is a positive one in that it involves ...

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