sociology of power

Political Sociology of Australia: Democracy, Policy, and Power

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Political Sociology of Australia: Democracy, Policy, and Power

Introduction Political sociology examines the relationship between society and political institutions, focusing on how power, authority, and governance are shaped by social structures. In the Australian context, political sociology offers valuable insights into how democracy functions within a multicultural, settler-colonial society shaped by class divisions, Indigenous struggles, global capitalism, and evolving state policies. Australia is … Read more

Biopower: Power Over People’s Bodies and Minds

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Abnormality: Meaning and Concept in Social Psychology

Biopower is one of the most influential concepts in contemporary sociology, especially in the study of how modern societies regulate human life. Coined by French philosopher Michel Foucault, the term “biopower” describes the mechanisms through which institutions, states, and systems exercise control over human bodies, behaviors, and thoughts. Unlike traditional forms of power—such as monarchies … Read more

Louis Althusser’s Views on Conflict Theory: A Sociological Analysis

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Louis Althusser’s Views on Conflict Theory: A Sociological Analysis

Introduction on Louis Althusser’s Views on Conflict Theory Louis Althusser (1918–1990), a French Marxist philosopher, made profound contributions to social theory by reinterpreting Karl Marx’s ideas through a structuralist framework. While not traditionally classified as a “conflict theorist” in the same vein as Marx, Weber, or Dahrendorf, Althusser’s work nonetheless fits within the broader landscape … Read more

Max Weber on Power: Lessons for Today’s Politics

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Max Weber on Power: Lessons for Today’s Politics

Introduction on Max Weber on Power Power has always been central to human society, shaping the organization of communities, states, and global structures. Among the classical sociologists, Max Weber (1864–1920) stands as one of the most influential thinkers in understanding power and authority. His analysis, rooted in sociology and political theory, offers timeless insights into … Read more

C. Wright Mills and the Critique of Functionalism

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Introduction on C. Wright Mills In the mid-20th century, American sociology was dominated by structural functionalism, an approach most famously associated with Talcott Parsons and Robert K. Merton. Functionalism emphasized the stability of society, viewing it as a system of interrelated parts working together to maintain order and equilibrium. However, as the world entered an … Read more