Political Power and Theories of State

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to political power and various theories of the state, as discussed in the lecture.

Power

The ability to influence or control the behavior of people and it often includes coercion.

Authority

The legitimate power that an individual or group holds, requiring consent from those governed.

Pluralism

A political theory that advocates for the coexistence of diverse interests and groups within a political system, emphasizing decision-making through observation.

Agenda-Setting

A process whereby certain issues are prioritized and brought to the forefront of political discourse, sometimes at the expense of others.

Hegemony

The dominance of one group over others, often achieved through subtle forms of influence rather than overt coercion.

False Consciousness

A Marxist concept referring to the way in which material, ideological, and institutional processes obscure the realities of class relations and perpetuate social inequality.

State-Centred Theories

An approach that views the state as an independent actor that influences political outcomes and maintains its own interests.

Marxism

A theory that emphasizes class conflict and claims that the state acts to reproduce existing power relations.

Democracy

A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.

Coercion

The practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats.