Name: Eric Joel C.

Salazar Subject: Philippines Politics Governance

Grade/Section: 12 HUMSS A

Power embodies the ability to guide and influence how people behave, typically associated
with authority that gains its credibility from societal norms. Importantly, power doesn’t always
hinge on physical might; it often thrives through the subtler channels of persuasion. This influence
becomes a potent instrument for those aiming to change how individuals act or think, steering
events in directions they might not naturally go. In simpler terms, power is the means to make
others do things they might not want to, using various methods, and it often partners with
authority for added legitimacy, ultimately shaping the course of events in the process.

Power, in the world of social and political sciences, is a complex concept with many aspects.
Simply put, it’s the ability to influence or control people, and it plays a big role in how societies
work. This influence isn’t always obvious; it can be subtle and exist in individuals, organizations, or
even ideas. When we look at the different sides of power, we see various forms. Coercive power is
when force or the threat of force is used to get what someone wants. Legitimate power comes from
accepted authority, like government leaders. Referent power is based on being admired or respected
by others. Expert power comes from having special knowledge or skills. Reward power involves
giving incentives to motivate people, often in workplaces. Informational power is about controlling
important information. Power also shows up in different areas of life. Political power is about
influencing government decisions, while economic power involves controlling money and industries.
Social power shapes relationships and group dynamics. Cultural power influences how societies see
themselves and others. Personal power is an individual’s ability to influence others in everyday life.
The outcomes of power can be good or bad. It can be used to make positive changes, uphold justice,
and maintain order. But when it’s misused, it can lead to unfairness, inequality, and even social
unrest. How power is used depends on the values and intentions of those who have it. As a student,
I’ve noticed that we often see our teachers as experts in the classroom. We respect their knowledge
and authority, which we call “expertise power.” But there’s something else happening too – a
different kind of power we can call “power with.” This shows up when students work together in
class discussions and group projects. In these situations, we students use our collective power by
cooperating and collaborating to achieve our educational goals. We negotiate, communicate
effectively, and work as a team to reach those shared objectives. This teamwork is what helps us
succeed in our projects. While we have this power with each other, it’s also crucial to recognize the
role of our teachers, who possess expertise power. They use their knowledge to maintain the
structure of our learning environment. They guide us, evaluate our progress through grading, and
provide valuable advice. Their expertise not only shapes how we experience education but also
influences our final result’s In essence, it’s a combination of our teachers’ expertise power and our
power with each other as students that shapes how we interact in the classroom and the outcomes
we achieve in our education.

In conclusion, power is a complex idea that isn’t just about physical strength. It includes
things like persuasion and influence. It comes in many forms, from forceful to legitimate. Power
affects societies, relationships, and individuals, and it can have good or bad results, depending on
how it’s used. In school, students see two kinds of power: the expertise of teachers and the power
that comes from working together. Both play a big role in how we learn. Teachers guide us with
their knowledge, and we achieve more when we collaborate as a group. Overall, power is
everywhere, and it can shape our lives. Using it responsibly and ethically is important for making
positive changes and avoiding unfairness or harm.

References:

https://schools.au.reachout.com/articles/why-its-important-to-understand-student-needs-and-
interests#:~:text=Taking%20a%20bit%20of%20time,their%20learning%20interests%20and
%20strengths.

https://www.manager-tools.com/forums/role-power-really-least-powerful-form-power