ABSTRACT
If we are to understand the manner in which the structure of closure influences the relations between individuals and the exercise of power we must first clarify the nature of desire. For the exercise of power involves the capacity of one individual or institution to change the behaviour or beliefs of another, and that capacity in part depends on the desires of the individual concerned. If an individual is capable of changing the desires of another they are capable also of influencing behaviour and thus can be said to have some power over the individual concerned. It is important therefore to address the origin of desire and its role in personal space before an attempt is made to elaborate the role of closure in determining the power relations between individuals or institutions.
