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macht

Macht is the German noun for power or might. It denotes the capacity to influence events, shape outcomes, or compel actions. In everyday language it can refer to personal strength as well as to institutional authority. Etymologically, Macht comes from Germanic roots related to the English word might.

In social and political theory, Macht is often treated as relational and context-dependent rather than a fixed

The study of power also relies on theoretical frameworks such as Max Weber’s typology of authority—traditional,

In German discourse, Macht plays a central role in discussions of governance, intergroup relations, and social

attribute
of
individuals.
Analysts
distinguish
different
sources
and
forms
of
power,
including
coercive
power
(the
ability
to
impose
penalties
or
use
force);
economic
power
(control
of
resources,
capital,
or
markets);
political
power
(legitimate
authority
and
governance
structures);
and
symbolic
or
cultural
power
(the
capacity
to
shape
norms,
values,
and
discourse).
charismatic,
and
rational-legal—and
Johan
Lukes’
three
dimensions
of
power
(decision-making,
non-decision-making,
and
shaping
desires).
These
perspectives
explore
how
Macht
is
exercised,
contested,
and
legitimized
within
institutions,
organizations,
and
broader
society.
inequality.
It
appears
in
analyses
of
state
power,
corporate
influence,
and
civil
society,
and
is
frequently
examined
in
relation
to
legitimacy,
democracy,
and
the
rule
of
law.