Handbook on Political Power

This definitive Handbook synthesizes key themes in contemporary power debates. With perspectives from political science, sociology, international relations, peace and development research, feminist political theory and environmental studies, leading experts and commentators provide clear exposition of the concepts of soft and hard power, and the connection between domination, resistance and empowerment.Drawing conflictual and collaborative traditions into dialogue, contributing authors explain the relationship of power to cognate concepts, including authority, coercion, social change and agency. Outlining the role of the state in international politics and military and economic sources of power, chapters also examine Black studies as a form of resistance and gendered coloniality. The Handbook evaluates power as an interactive and relational process, addressing topical issues such as nationalist ideologies and the consequences of the Russian war against Ukraine as a power strategy.The Handbook on Political Power presents a cutting-edge understanding of power in international relations, political science and sociology, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and students across these fields. It is also beneficial for practitioners and policymakers in public policy and regulation and governance seeking timely insights into current conceptions of power.