Paul Smolensky, Period 2, 3/14/23

 Socio-political Consciousness

• What are your thoughts and feelings about issues of inequity, oppression, and/or power?

• How do you reflect critically on your own beliefs, assumptions, values, and experiences, and how these can influence your perception of self and others?

Power is the ability to influence others. It is the crux on which rests the idea of government and ultimately society. Power is not inherently positive or negative, it is a force that can be channeled for good or ill depending on who wields it. The true nature of power is a complex question that has puzzled philosophers since the time of ancient Greece. Whether power is shown in overt displays of force or as a subtle, guiding hand it is the thing that shapes our society. History has shown that to govern effectively power needs to be used in moderation, and a careful balance between authority and freedom must be kept. 

On the one hand, power is necessary to maintain security and stability in society. Without some level of control, anarchy is almost inevitable, and with it, destruction and chaos. Without control any society would collapse into an unrecognizable mess. As such, an authority to enforce order is always necessary in some capacity. Whether by creating and executing laws, collecting taxes, or providing public services, a certain use of force is mandatory for any sort of function. 

On the other hand, the exercise of power can also infringe upon individual freedoms and rights. When those in power become too controlling, they can stifle dissent and limit the ability of individuals to express themselves and pursue their own goals. This can lead to a loss of creativity, innovation, and individuality, which are essential components of a vibrant and thriving society. In extreme cases, the concentration of power can lead to oppression and abuse, as seen in many authoritarian regimes throughout history.

The key to balancing power and freedom lies in creating systems that provide both security and individual rights. This requires a commitment to societal values and selflessness of those who are entrusted to wield power. If such a careful balance can be maintained, and citizens are capable of engaging in free speech, and encourage reform through peaceful criticism by expressing their opinions and influencing policy, the risk of abuse is reduced. Similarly, when individuals are given the resources and opportunities to pursue their own goals, they are more likely to feel empowered and engaged in society for mutual benefit. 

It is these thoughts that affect my perception of the world. When I am introduced to an institution, be it governmental, societal, religious, or otherwise I subconsciously evaluate it on a scale of control/freedom. I am generally extremely skeptical of those organizations that claim to serve a purpose for which it is necessary to revoke certain rights or reject certain individual ideals.