ABSTRACT
Power is often perceived as a dark social and organizational force or as limited to hierarchical organizational positions of authority. In reality, power is a multidimensional construct that is a fundamental property of any system and is necessary for facilitating and enabling structures. In this chapter, we discuss power using a framework of four types of power relations: power over, power to, power with and power within. In discussing each of these types of power relations we draw on various theorists to discuss power as an indispensable source of social process – including organizational positivity. Positive power is viewed as generative, facilitative, empowering, collaborative, inclusive and polyphonic. We also distinguish between positive power relations that are voluntarily entered into as opposed to those that are imposed against a person’s will. Resistance to power is also discussed.
