Which kind of power will Americans choose?
Recent governmental events (kidnapping people off the streets, arresting dissenters, blocking free speech, withholding monies) brought back a few thoughts.
One (from a political science class) was, “Power is seized – not granted.” The other (from a seminar on negotiations) was, “The one who doesn’t care tends to win.” Both ideas have relevance in today’s societal confusion.
Power can be used beneficially or harmfully. In either case there is a continuum. At one end there are soft generic definitions like: the ability to act or produce an effect; and having influence over others. Later come stronger words indicating official or legal authority … the statement, “I/we have a right to (something)” fits here.
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