| Abstract: | Discusses the use of decision theory as a framework for clarifying and organizing various conceptualizations of social power. The theory of decision making used suggests that an actor's decision regarding the performance of some behavior is a function of (a) the actor's utility or evaluation of the consequences of the behavior and (b) the actor's subjective probabilities or expectations that the behavior will lead to these consequences. The decisions and behavior of actors in exerting and responding to social power are analyzed in this manner. A number of conceptual issues are discussed, and several theories of social power are examined in terms of concepts and distinctions derived from the decision theory analysis of social power. (71 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
