Power Dynamics

Power exists. It may be an unseen concept but it is felt. It is felt in the dynamics of relationships. Whether individual to individual, individual to institution, or institution to institution, the power that each wield is felt by certain actions that they take.

Consider the withholding of information (also known as the silent treatment). Or the show of force (found often in the expression of anger). What about the taking on of responsibilities? While often considered a good thing, the giving of a responsibility to someone else can also be seen as a giving of power to said person.

So how do we solve power imbalances? From the three examples, if we force transparency (also known as honesty) we draw out the silent ones. If we respond neutrally to shows of force, the mechanism loses its edge. And if we begin to take back our responsibilities, then we take back the power we initially held.