Coercive

Definition

Coercive refers to the use of force, threats, or other forms of compulsion to make someone take a particular action or behave in a certain way. It involves the application of power or authority to compel compliance, often against the will or consent of the individual or group being subjected to it.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coercive power is one of the five bases of power identified in social psychology, along with reward, legitimate, expert, and referent power.
2. Coercive tactics can be used by both individuals and institutions, such as governments, to force compliance with their demands or policies.
3. The use of coercion can undermine the autonomy and self-determination of individuals, as it removes their ability to make free choices.
4. Coercive measures can range from physical force and threats to more subtle forms of pressure, such as economic sanctions or social ostracization.
5. The concept of coercion is closely linked to the idea of power dynamics, as those with greater power or authority are often able to exert coercive influence over those with less power.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of coercion relates to the definition of politics as 'who gets what, when, where, how, and why'.
  • The concept of coercion is directly relevant to the definition of politics as 'who gets what, when, where, how, and why.' Politics often involves the distribution and allocation of resources, power, and decision-making authority. Coercive tactics can be used by those in power to compel others to comply with their preferred outcomes, regardless of the will or consent of the affected individuals or groups. This can shape the distribution of societal resources and influence the decision-making processes, demonstrating how coercion is a key factor in the political dynamics of 'who gets what, when, where, how, and why.'
• Analyze how the use of coercive power can undermine the principles of democratic governance.
  • The use of coercive power can undermine the principles of democratic governance, which are based on the ideals of individual liberty, self-determination, and the consent of the governed. When coercive tactics are employed, they can suppress the ability of citizens to freely participate in the political process, express dissent, or make autonomous choices. This can lead to the concentration of power in the hands of a few, the erosion of checks and balances, and the suppression of minority voices, all of which are antithetical to the foundations of democratic systems. The reliance on coercion rather than persuasion and negotiation can also erode the legitimacy of political institutions and undermine public trust in the fairness and responsiveness of the governing process.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of the use of coercive power by governments or other authorities, and discuss potential strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of coercion in political contexts.
  • The use of coercive power by governments or other authorities raises significant ethical concerns, as it can infringe on individual rights, autonomy, and human dignity. Coercion, when applied excessively or without proper checks and balances, can lead to the oppression of marginalized groups, the suppression of dissent, and the erosion of democratic norms. Potential strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of coercion in political contexts include: strengthening the rule of law and the independence of judicial institutions; promoting transparency and accountability in decision-making processes; fostering a culture of civic engagement and political participation; and prioritizing the use of non-coercive, persuasive, and collaborative approaches to governance, such as negotiation, consensus-building, and inclusive policymaking. Ultimately, the ethical use of power in politics requires a delicate balance between the legitimate exercise of authority and the protection of individual freedoms and human rights.

Related terms

Authoritarian:

A political system or leader that exercises strict and often oppressive control over the population, with little or no regard for individual rights and liberties.

Compulsion: The act of forcing someone to do something through the use of pressure, threats, or other means of coercion, often against their will or better judgment.

Oppression: The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner, often involving the suppression of individual rights and freedoms.