THE CONFLICTUAL AND CONSENSUAL NATURES OF POWER

Abstract

The aim of the research was to consider the phenomenon of political power on the basis of the classification of «conflict-consensus». To do do, an analysis of the main cratological studies was provided (the concepts of M. Weber, R. Dahl, S. Lux, T. Parsons, H. Arendt and M. Foucault). These studies were synthesized into the two corresponding fundamental approaches: conflictual and consensual.
It is studied that the conflictual nature of power is characterized by asymmetric relationships based on actual or potential conflict between individuals. It is also determined that such power arises in those social interactions where one of the subjects has the ability to influence the other, overcoming its resistance. In turn, it is established here that power in a consensual approach is seen as a collective resource, as an opportunity to achieve a certain public good. It has been found that the consensus approach rejects the idea of «zero amount», suggesting that power can be exercised for the common good. It is analyzed that the representatives of this approach emphasize the legitimative nature of power. According to them, power belongs not to individuals or groups, but to entire groups of people or society as a whole.