Latest News
Explain the Macpherson''s view on power. (UPSC CSE Mains 2025- Political Science and International Relations, Paper 1). 10 Marks
C.B. Macpherson’s view on power is rooted in his critique of liberal democracy and capitalist society. He challenges the traditional notion of power as mere control or domination, instead proposing a more nuanced understanding that distinguishes between different types of power and their effects on human development.
At the heart of Macpherson’s theory is the concept of possessive individualism, which he argues dominates liberal thought. In this framework, individuals are seen primarily as owners of their own capacities, competing in a market-driven society. This leads to a form of power that is extractive—where the powerful use others’ abilities for personal gain, reinforcing inequality and limiting genuine freedom.
Macpherson contrasts this with developmental power, which he sees as the capacity to help others grow and realize their potential. In a truly democratic society, power should be exercised in ways that enable collective flourishing, not just individual advantage. He believes that democracy should be participatory, ethical, and inclusive—focused on empowering citizens rather than protecting property or market freedoms.
Ultimately, Macpherson envisions a humanist democracy that blends socialist principles with democratic institutions. This model would reduce extractive power and promote developmental power, allowing individuals to engage fully in political life and contribute meaningfully to society.
Macpherson’s theory is thus a powerful call to rethink democracy—not just as a set of procedures, but as a system that genuinely empowers people.
POSTED ON 29-09-2025 BY ADMIN
Next previous 
General Studies
Political Science and International Relations
Some Reference Essays
List of previous year essay topics (1997-2019)
IAS GOOGLE is googled by the team of Raja Sir’s Cracking IAS Academy. Sources include The Hindu, Indian Express, pib.nic.in, Down To Earth, Economic Times, Vigyan Prasar, AIR and the like. IAS GOOGLE has been prepared in pace with emerging UPSC Trends.