Question

Power and Politics

 What is the relationship between power and dependency.

 Define and explain the different bases (or sources) of power; the power (or influence) tactics, and the contingencies that can affect the effectiveness of power tactics.

Answer 1

1)   

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POWER AND DEPENDENCY :-

Power and dependency can be seen as such a ratio wherein if one gets more the other one gets less. In other words, Dependency means to  be dependent on other person or even a thing and thus it gives that person or thing more Power. It depends on the ''dependency'' given. If a thing is more dependent on another thing then it gives the other thing more power. For example, If demand of a product is more in the market then supply will increase in the market. Similarly goes with dependency and power.

2) DIFFERENT SOURCES OF POWER :-

a) Legitimate power -- This power is kind of an accountable power wherein, for example, a junior in an organization needs to report to his Superior. And then the Superior will assign all the Juniors their respective work. Here the person in power expects obedience and punctuality from his Juniors .

b) Expert Power -- In this kind of power, knowledge plays the key role. Any person who has great and expert knowledge about a subject or area then its called as an Expert Power. Such people are looked upto for critical tasks as they have the ability to complete the task.

c) Reward Power -- Reward power can be used as a motivational tool in an organization or institute. Rewards can be given in any form such as bonus, salary, perks and facilities, appraisals appraisals etc. This power motivates to perform better each time.

d) Coercive Power -- Coercive power ensures discipline in an organization. This helps people to be more careful. This alerts people to do work efficiently so as to avoid punishments in any form.

e) Referent Power -- This is a power which helps people to influence the other one. One can influence with his capability or good relations. This helps in smooth functioning of work and avoids conflict at some points.

--> POWER TACTICS AND ITS CONTINGENCIES AND EFFECTIVENESS :-

Power tactics or influence tactics helps a person to persuade or influence the other person will his capabilities. This ensures smooth functioning without any concerns or conflicts. It is based on emotions and feelings of a person.

Contingencies of power :- Sometimes Power or influence power can be used for politics too. This can harm the other person for their own benefit. Influence power majorly works in accordance with the emotions of a person. This might cause some risks and conflicts too.

Effectiveness of power :- With power, one can take the right decision and can even advise the other one with good advices. Power in any an organization can help a person to show his good and responsible capabilities. Sometimes power is used for bad causes but this shall be avoided at all costs. Power shows responsibilities and thus can coordinate people and ensure success too.