Definition Essay: The Use Of Power

People often control the behavior of others or events to a certain degree, some more than others. This is done by the use of power. Producing a single definition for a word with a plethora of usages is practically impossible, but not quite. Power can be defined as the ability of an individual to direct anything onto the course they desire. From pushing a cardboard box to leading soldiers in battle, this definition encompasses the basis of the word power. Despite the idea that excess power is dangerous, power is a necessary factor in maintaining relations among people in society.
Power manifests itself in several forms, all common to the function of society. Some subclasses include legitimate power, coercive power, and traditional power. Although all these are ultimately the same, they are each distinct. Legitimate power results from the placement of an individual in a high position. One example of legitimate power is the legitimacy of a king to rule over the people of his kingdom. On the other hand, coercive power results from force upon an individual through threats
Yet, it is imperative to mark the distinction among them because power is simply none of the above. Authority may give a person power or make it moral for a person to use power. Despite this, authority does not guarantee the exertion of power. Influence is merely changing a person’s perspective through persuasion, but unless it fits an individual’s desire, it can not be considered power. Influence, therefore, is just a process that aids in the application of power. An individual achieves control when they exercise force, which is not always the case during the use of power. However, the manipulation of power may lead to control. All in all, authority supplies power, influence helps install power, and control is a product of power; creating relationships unconsciously or