Essays on Evolutions in the Study of Political Power

"The concept of power is one of the few concepts to be widely considered indispensable in all branches of social science. But how do we find out who ‘has’ power? Under which kinds of empowering conditions is it manifest? For what purposes is it used, and at whose expense or benefit? These are questions to which answers are highly controversial, as are the conceptual models which distinguish power from domination, coercion, influence, manipulation, governance etc. Also, counter-power is needed in order to emancipate society from powerful encroachments on republican freedom and social justice. This collection of essays brings together some of the most prominent protagonists of these ongoing debates. It provides the reader with a balanced and multi-faceted account of where we stand in the analysis of social power."

- Claus Offe

, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Humboldt University and Hertie School, Berlin

"These essays come from some of the finest authors writing on power today and cover some of the most important issues. It will be indispensable reading in politics and sociology, law and philosophy, for many years to come."

- Philip Pettit, L.S.Rockefeller University Professor of Human Values, Princeton University and Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Australian National University

"Essays on Evolutions in the Study of Political Poweris a goldmine of insights from the cutting edge of power scholarship, penned by the most prominent names in the field. It should be read by anyone interested in the future of power and democracy."

- Bent Flyvbjerg, First BT Professor and Inaugural Chair of Major Programme Management, University of Oxford; Villum Kann Rasmussen Professor and Chair, IT University of Copenhagen

"If you want to know who really governs and how in your community, your nation or in the world system, just read this incredibly well-researched and thoughtful collection of essays!"

- Pierre Birnbaum, Professor Emeritus of Political Sociology at the University of Paris, Panthéon-Sorbonne

"The essays in this volume not only take stock of the "power debates" of the last forty years, they also chart exciting new paths for future research. With contributions from many of the major figures in the field, this book is a must read for anyone interested in how the concept of power is deployed in a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, sociology, political theory, development studies, and international relations."

- Amy Rebekah Allen, Liberal Arts Professor of Philosophy and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, The Pennsylvania State University