Power Dynamics

What is the concept of 'power over' in a social context?

• Empowering others through collaboration and support

• Being indifferent to the opinions and needs of others

• Exerting control or influence over others through coercion, force, or authority.

• Seeking consensus and compromise in decision-making

Give an example of 'power to' in a workplace setting.

• An example of 'power to' in a workplace setting is a manager having the power to approve or reject project proposals.

• An example of 'power to' in a workplace setting is a receptionist having the power to hire and fire employees.

• An example of 'power to' in a workplace setting is a janitor having the power to set company policies.

• An example of 'power to' in a workplace setting is a customer service representative having the power to allocate the budget.

Explain the concept of 'power with' in a community setting.

• Imposing decisions on community members without their input

• Collaborative and inclusive approach to decision-making and problem-solving, sharing power and resources among community members, valuing diverse perspectives, and working together towards common goals.

• Excluding certain community members from decision-making processes

• Favoring one group's perspective over others and disregarding diverse viewpoints

How does 'power over' differ from 'power to'?

• Power over is about domination, while power to is about submission.

• Power over is about control, while power to is about capability or capacity.

• Power over is about influence, while power to is about ability.

• Power over is about strength, while power to is about weakness.

In what ways can 'power with' be beneficial in a team environment?

• Leads to unequal distribution of influence

• Promotes collaboration, trust, inclusivity, shared decision-making, equal distribution of influence, higher morale, and productivity.

• Reduces productivity and morale

• Causes conflict and competition

Discuss the potential drawbacks of 'power over' in a leadership position.

• Building trust and mutual respect among team members

• Promoting a positive and inclusive work environment

• Creating resentment among team members, hindering open communication, and fostering a culture of fear and intimidation.

• Encouraging teamwork and collaboration

Provide an example of 'power to' being used for positive change in society.

• Using their influence to advocate for environmental sustainability and support policies that promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.

• Using their influence to advocate for the exploitation of natural resources and support policies that damage ecosystems

• Using their influence to advocate for the use of fossil fuels and support policies that increase carbon emissions

• Using their influence to advocate for increased pollution and support policies that harm the environment

How can individuals in a community exercise 'power with' effectively?

• By creating division and conflict within the community

• By dominating others and imposing their will

• By building strong relationships, collaborating with others, and working towards common goals.

• By ignoring the needs and perspectives of others

Compare and contrast 'power over' and 'power with' in a political context.

• Power over is about collaboration and sharing of power, while power with is about control and domination.

• Power over is about compromise and negotiation, while power with is about coercion and force.

• Power over is about equality and fairness, while power with is about hierarchy and authority.

• 'Power over' is about control and domination, while 'power with' is about collaboration and sharing of power.

Explain the importance of understanding the dynamics of 'power to' in personal relationships.

• Understanding the dynamics of 'power to' in personal relationships is important because it helps to create a balanced and healthy dynamic where both individuals feel empowered and respected.

• Understanding the dynamics of 'power to' in personal relationships is not important because it doesn't affect the relationship dynamics

• It is not important to understand the dynamics of 'power to' in personal relationships as long as one person is happy

• The dynamics of 'power to' in personal relationships is only important for one person to have control over the other