Foucault on Power: A Critical Analysis for Political Science Students

Foucault on Power: A Critical Analysis for Political Science Students

Introduction Michel Foucault (1926–1984) was a French philosopher and social theorist whose work has profoundly influenced contemporary political science, sociology, and critical theory. Unlike traditional theories of power that focus on sovereignty, state control, or class domination (as in Marx or Weber), he offers a radically different perspective. For Foucault, power is not merely repressive … Read more

Conceptions of Power in Political Science

Conceptions of Power in Political Science

Introduction on Conceptions of Power Power is one of the most fundamental and contested concepts in political science. It lies at the heart of political interactions, governance, and social structures. Scholars have long debated its nature, sources, and manifestations, leading to diverse conceptions that shape our understanding of authority, influence, and control in political systems. … Read more

Developmental and Deliberative Democracy: A Political Science Perspective

Foucault on Power: A Critical Analysis for Political Science Students

Introduction Democracy, as a system of governance, has evolved over centuries, adapting to changing political, social, and economic conditions. Among the various models of democracy, developmental democracy and deliberative democracy stand out as significant theoretical frameworks that address different aspects of democratic governance. While developmental democracy emphasizes economic and social progress as key outcomes of democratic rule, deliberative democracy … Read more

Direct and Indirect Forms of Democracy: A Political Science Perspective

Developmental and Deliberative Democracy

Introduction on Direct and Indirect Forms of Democracy The word democracy, which comes from the Greek words demos (people) and kratos (rule), refers to a form of governance in which the people themselves have the power. It is among the most popular and well-liked systems of government in the contemporary world. Democracy can be broadly … Read more

Marxian Perspectives of Civil Society

Developmental and Deliberative Democracy

Introduction on Marxian Perspectives of Civil Society Civil society is a central concept in political science, referring to the realm of voluntary associations, social movements, and institutions that exist between the state, the market, and the private sphere. Within Marxist theory, civil society is not seen as an autonomous or neutral space but rather as … Read more

Liberal View on Civil Society: John Locke and Hegel

Liberal View on Civil Society: John Locke and Hegel

Introduction Civil society is a central concept in political science, representing the sphere of voluntary associations, social groups, and institutions that operate independently of the state. The liberal perspective on civil society emphasizes individual freedoms, private property, and limited government intervention. Two key thinkers who contributed significantly to the liberal understanding of civil society are John … Read more