Law and Power

Law and Power

Law and Power

Introduction

We will be reviewing the law and the concept of power which exist in our world. As we know that laws are rules according to which we live our life and the world carry out its affairs. The power is the tool which helps us in achieving our objectives by utilizing others.

In our study we will be seeking answers to the following questions:

What is Law?

What is Power?

The relationship between law and power?

Perspectives of law and power in the light of political, philosophical, sociological, economics factors.

We will then finalize our topic with a summary. The law and power are interrelated where law may be granting power to someone and will be taking power from authority.

Discussion

What is law?

The system of rules and guidelines enforced by the administrative authority to control the behaviour is called “Law” (Barnard, 2011, pp 11). Laws are made, changed, made obsolete by the governments through the legislation bodies or the people in authority. The law's formulation is carried out in the light guidance of constitution of the country (written or unwritten) and according to the right mentioned in it. The law defines the economics, politics and society in numerous ways and work as a relationship manager among people and entities. Laws are a necessary element of the norms of the society and without them the society will fall apart. They have the power to influence a change, restrict or liberate, create justice in the society or provide favor to certain class. Laws are meant to uphold equality but they can result in developing inequalities society. Laws prevailing justice, create a motivation in the people to follow it.

In Australia all the States and Territories which are self governed are considered as a separate jurisdictions and all legal activities takes place in their respective courts and parliaments. The law in one state is recognized in all states but is not obligatory to follow. The laws passed by the Australia's Parliament are applicable to all states.

What is power?

The ability to influence other actions and behaviours despite facing resistance or without resistance is defined by political scientists as Power. When the acquired power is due to a position or social structure then the term used in place of power is authority. Power and the word power is often perceived as negative in the society but the expression of power and its use is widespread in the society. In organizations power is usually expressed to be exerted downward or upward. The downward power exertion is observed when the senior's in the company influences the juniors. The upward power exertion is observed when the juniors or a lower level staff influences the higher management or leader (Greiner & Schein, 1988). The study of power is often referred to as politics in the society. There are numerous theories arguing on the definition of power but we can broadly categorize power as follows:

Legitimate Power

The power provided to an individual due to his position or ...