Ideas of Steven Lukes, by Theme

[British, fl. 1990, Professor at the LSE, and then New York University.]

green numbers give full details    |    back to list of philosophers    |     expand these ideas
20. Action / A. Definition of Action / 1. Action Theory
There is collective action, where a trend is manifest, but is not attributable to individuals
24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 1. Social Power
Power can be exercised to determine a person's desires
Hidden powers are the most effective
The pluralist view says that power is restrained by group rivalry
Power is a capacity, which may never need to be exercised
One-dimensionsal power is behaviour in observable conflicts of interests
The two-dimensional view of power recognises the importance of controlling the agenda
Political organisation brings some conflicts to the fore, and suppresses others
The evidence for the exertion of power need not involve a grievance of the powerless
Power is affecting a person in a way contrary to their interests
Supreme power is getting people to have thoughts and desires chosen by you
Power is the capacity of a social class to realise its interests
24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 1. Ideology
In the 1950s they said ideology is finished, and expertise takes over
24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 6. Liberalism / a. Liberalism basics
Liberals take people as they are, and take their preferences to be their interests
24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 11. Capitalism
Anyone who thinks capitalism can improve their lives is endorsing capitalism