The word “power” radiates a sense of purpose and strength both in our daily lives and beyond. For some, it represents a personal presence that demands attention and prestige while for others it is a source of energy and comfort. We recently experienced the absence of power from our daily lives as the electric grid that has become a vital source of basic sustenance was either threatened or “de-energized” to avoid catastrophic fires such as the recent Paradise, California disaster.
It depends on the context, but power is a consistent thread in our communities. It can be a driving force to overcome obstacles, a sense of commitment or a destructive personal element that strives to dominate and suppress. In fables, fact or fiction, pursuit of power is often a prime motivational factor. Musical representations use words and tonal progressions to soothe or heighten a sense of power. Consider classic power songs such as We Will Rock You (Queen), Eye of the Tiger (Survivor) and What Doesn’t Kill You (Kelly Clarkson) as examples of strong and emotional representations.
Sociologists study the hierarchy of “power, prestige and privilege” in terms of social status – how much influence, respect and social advantages accrue to an individual. A critical factor of power whether internal or external, is how it is used or leveraged. In the case of our power grid, when squandered or misused, it can result in catastrophic failure, but if conserved and carefully managed, keep the lights on and our homes comfortable. When power is applied to individuals, effects can be described in relationships… how someone is perceived in relationship to others.
Politics can heighten this dynamic since, in many cases, those who wield power are separated from the governed. As politicians move through levels of government and become further removed from individual contact with constituents into a more representational role, the inverse of power takes hold. Less interaction equals more power. Theory can often replace practical considerations and common sense loses ground.
The strength of the political system is at the local level, since it is there that we, the people, actually have influence and personal relationships with our representatives. In the coming election cycle, opportunities will exist to affect that process. Elections are the apogee of political pressure and, as our local politicians ask for your vote, the time to participate and demand answers to issues of importance. Although demanding total and complete agreement on all matters is impractical, those elected are asked to thoughtfully and rationally weigh the arguments and make decisions based on a solid foundation of facts.
With the power of our votes, comes a responsibility to ask tough questions and expect reasonable answers. When transferring power to our representatives, it is fair to expect that a response to issues is clear, direct and without evasion or unnecessary elaboration. Too often, even at the local level, the persuasion of power is evident in lengthy and tedious monologues when a sentence or two will suffice. Watch a council or board meeting and, in the midst of a 10-minute speech by a member of that body, ask yourself whether a more concise conclusion would be not only adequate, but more efficient and interesting. The link between power and corruption has been recognized for centuries, often expressed in a quote associated with English historian Lord Acton in 1887. “”Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It is incumbent on our representatives and those who elect them to guard against this tendency. Power represents a delicate balance between potential and result.
So many times it happens too fast
You trade your passion for glory
Don't lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive
Eye of the Tiger