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The Evolution of Political Power in Political Development

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  • Herbert H. Werlin

    (University of Maryland)

Abstract

To understand political science, we must understand political power. Our misunder-standing of political power is especially problematic for those concerned with comparative politics.Political Elasticity (PE) theory, including the concepts of ‘quality of power’ and ‘political software’, is used to examine and clarify such dichotomies as: (i) transitive and intransitive power; (ii) hard and soft forms of power; and (iii) power as a resource and power as a relationship. What PE theory attempts to prove (by presenting many examples and using comparative case studies) is that political power tends to be more elastic (with rubber band and balloon characteristics) in more developed countries than in less developed countries.As the conclusion, the relationship of democracy to the evolution of political power is examined, including questions having to do with corruption, authoritarian rule and bureaucratization.The PE theory is also defended against criticisms that it is ‘untestable’ and ‘tautological’.

Suggested Citation

  • Herbert H. Werlin, 2008. "The Evolution of Political Power in Political Development," Journal of Developing Societies, , vol. 24(3), pages 307-336, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jodeso:v:24:y:2008:i:3:p:307-336
    DOI: 10.1177/0169796X0802400301
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