Topic 3: Concepts of power, order, and justice

• Power is the ability to control or influence people and decisions.
• Hard power uses force (military, money).
• Soft power persuades (culture, influence).
• Force – Using threats or violence.
• Influence – Persuading others.
• Authority – Power that people accept as rightful.
• Legitimate Power – Given fairly by law.
• Illegitimate Power – Taken through unfair means.
• Expert Power – Power from knowledge and skills.
• Referent Power – Power from admiration and respect.
• People get power in different ways—some use force, others use influence, laws, skills, or respect to gain power.
• Order means having rules and systems that keep society peaceful and stable.
• Justice means making sure everyone is treated fairly and the common good is protected.