SOCI 210 Chapter Notes - Chapter 17: Equal Voice, Symbolic Interactionism, Conflict Theories
24 Jan 2016
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Document Summary
Governments exert control over the people they govern. The nature of that control is an important feature of society. Political scientists focus on studying how power is distributed in different types of political systems. Sociologists tend to be more interested in the influences of governmental power on society and in how social conflicts arise from the distribution of power. Max weber said that power is the ability to exercise one"s will over others. Power affects more than personal relationships, it shapes larger dynamics like social groups, professional organizations, and governments. Endeavors to gain power and influence do not necessarily lead to violence, exploitation, or abuse. Modern technology has made forms of nonviolent reform easier to implement. Protestors can use cell phones and the internet to disseminate information and plans to masses of protestors in a rapid and efficient manner. Eg: arab spring twitter feeds and other social media helped protestors coordinate movements, share ideas, boost morale etc.
