QuoteReplyTopic: Power is consent: meet strategic nonviolence Posted: 26-Mar-2008 at 13:19
Here is an interesting theory of political power, which has strong repercussions on historical analyses and political action.
I will be defending this theory. Discuss this presentation of Gene Sharp's theory of power.
The theory can be stated simply: Power, even in the most closed and brutal dictatorship, depends on consent. Ordinary people can band together to withdraw their consent. Movements succeed when they refuse to resort to violence, since the regime always possesses superior instruments of violence. Ergo, the future of democracy and freedom depends on nonviolence.
Movements succeed when they refuse to resort to violence, since the regime always possesses superior instruments of violence.
Not always, though usually is probably true. Consider 1917 and 1789-93 (or Napoleon's later seizure of power). Or Vietnam in the 60s and 70s. Or the English Civil War.
Foreign assistance needs to be taken into account too.
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