Power

Power is also exercised when issues are ''re-framed'' or in other words when the boundaries of discussion are changed. Two examples can be the ''Occupy Wall Street'' movement that reframed the economic discussion in the country to focus on income inequality using terms like ''we are the 99%.'' Also, the ''Black Power'' movement in the late 1960s and 70s that changed the discussion on race in the country by taking a more militant stance than the earlier civil rights movement, as well as, focusing more attention on institutionalized racism in the North. By changing the debate, or reframing the issues, these groups were able to exercise power.
The concept of power was further expanded on by sociologist Steven Lukes who argued there are actually ''three dimensions of power'': the first being political decisions (Dahl), the second is framing (Bachrach and Baratz), and the third is power to influence values or social norms. Lukes argues it is ultimately what people consider to be right or wrong, or normal, that will influence what choices are available and what decisions are made.

Prof. Murdaco (http://theamericanpoliticalsystem.blogspot.com/2015/09/912-power.html)

For me the meaning of this passage is when people are together fighting for what they want they can obtain more power. This passage explains that when people are united is when they get strengths to confront any issues. For example, any social problems, like in our communities problems, or other problems which are affecting many people. However, many people think they cannot make any difference and they prefer to stay out of groups that are trying to change the policy. These passages emphasize movements like “Occupy wall Street” and ‘’Black Power,” which fought for their rights. These movements can be good examples of how to create awareness about something that is causing discomfort in our lives. However, when people are united in any country the government can recognize that not only the government can have power in the nation. Moreover, like Steven Lukes argued about the” three dimension of power,” first S. Lukas mentioned political decision, second is framing, and third power to influence values or social norms. In my opinion, there may be more. About our political issues, everyone thinks they have the solution. Also, not every problem applies to everyone. For example, people who have enough food at their home do not think about malnourishment. We do not have a balance for all types of problems. The government does not always try to resolve the problems in the ways the people want. People will realize if the nation will need a change or continue with the same government, after they think about which candidates they voted for.

I choose this passage because every day we see injustice around the world, not only in the USA. At least I like the USA justice system more in this country than my own country. I like when people can fight for their rights and they can be heard and can find solutions when they unite their voices. When people are respect the country’s rules and they are also respected too, they like the system in which they are living.