6 Lecture

MGT111

Midterm & Final Term Short Notes

Power And Politics

Power and politics refer to the processes and strategies used by individuals and groups to gain and maintain influence and control within an organization. It involves the use of authority, persuasion, and coercion to achieve desired outcomes. Un


Important Mcq's
Midterm & Finalterm Prepration
Past papers included

Download PDF
  1. What is power in an organizational context? A) The ability to influence others B) The authority to make decisions C) The ability to control resources D) All of the above Answer: D) All of the above

  2. Which of the following is NOT a source of power? A) Expertise B) Charisma C) Gender D) Legitimacy Answer: C) Gender

  3. Which type of power is based on the ability to reward or punish others? A) Coercive power B) Legitimate power C) Reward power D) Referent power Answer: C) Reward power

  4. What is the difference between power and authority? A) Authority is derived from one's position, while power is based on personal attributes B) Power is derived from one's position, while authority is based on personal attributes C) There is no difference between power and authority D) Both are derived from personal attributes Answer: A) Authority is derived from one's position, while power is based on personal attributes

  5. Which of the following is a political tactic used in organizations? A) Negotiation B) Collaboration C) Sabotage D) Teamwork Answer: C) Sabotage

  6. Which type of power is based on the admiration and respect of others? A) Coercive power B) Legitimate power C) Reward power D) Referent power Answer: D) Referent power

  7. Which type of power is based on knowledge and expertise? A) Coercive power B) Legitimate power C) Reward power D) Expert power Answer: D) Expert power

  8. What is the difference between a formal and informal leader? A) Formal leaders are appointed, while informal leaders emerge naturally B) Formal leaders are more powerful than informal leaders C) There is no difference between formal and informal leaders D) Informal leaders are appointed, while formal leaders emerge naturally Answer: A) Formal leaders are appointed, while informal leaders emerge naturally

  9. Which type of power is based on the ability to control information? A) Coercive power B) Legitimate power C) Reward power D) Information power Answer: D) Information power

  10. What is the difference between power and influence? A) Power is the ability to control others, while influence is the ability to persuade others B) There is no difference between power and influence C) Influence is the ability to control others, while power is the ability to persuade others D) Power and influence are the same thing Answer: A) Power is the ability to control others, while influence is the ability to persuade others.



Subjective Short Notes
Midterm & Finalterm Prepration
Past papers included

Download PDF
  1. Explain the concept of power and its types.

Power is the ability to influence the behavior of others. There are two types of power: formal power and informal power. Formal power is derived from a person's position or authority, while informal power is derived from personal characteristics such as charisma or expertise.

  1. What is the difference between power and authority?

Power is the ability to influence the behavior of others, while authority is the right to make decisions and enforce them. Authority is typically derived from a person's position or role, while power can come from various sources.

  1. How do politics influence decision-making in organizations?

Politics can influence decision-making in organizations by shaping the agendas and priorities of decision-makers, influencing the information they consider, and affecting the way they interpret and evaluate that information. Politics can also affect the way decisions are implemented and how resources are allocated.

  1. How can power be used ethically in organizations?

Power can be used ethically in organizations by using it to promote the greater good and make decisions that benefit everyone involved. This can involve using power to resolve conflicts, address ethical issues, and promote fairness and justice.

  1. Explain the concept of organizational politics.

Organizational politics refers to the use of power and influence to achieve personal or group goals within an organization. It often involves competing interests and conflicting agendas and can create tension and conflict within the organization.

  1. What are the negative effects of excessive political behavior in organizations?

Excessive political behavior in organizations can lead to decreased trust and morale among employees, increased conflict and tension, and a focus on individual goals rather than organizational goals. It can also lead to unethical behavior and a lack of transparency and accountability.

  1. How can organizations manage political behavior?

Organizations can manage political behavior by creating a culture of transparency and accountability, providing clear guidelines and rules for decision-making, promoting ethical behavior and values, and fostering an environment of collaboration and cooperation.

  1. What is the role of leadership in managing power and politics in organizations?

Leadership plays a crucial role in managing power and politics in organizations. Leaders can set the tone for the organization by modeling ethical behavior and promoting a culture of transparency and accountability. They can also work to manage conflicts and address issues of power and politics as they arise.

  1. How do individual differences in power and influence affect organizational behavior?

Individual differences in power and influence can affect organizational behavior by shaping the way individuals interact with each other and with the organization as a whole. Some individuals may be more effective at using power and influence to achieve their goals, while others may be less effective or may choose not to use these tactics at all.

  1. What are some strategies for managing power and politics in organizations?

Strategies for managing power and politics in organizations include promoting transparency and accountability, providing clear guidelines and rules for decision-making, fostering an environment of collaboration and cooperation, and promoting ethical behavior and values. It is also important to address conflicts and issues as they arise and to work to create a culture that values openness and honesty.

Power and politics are two critical aspects of public administration. Power refers to the ability of an individual or a group to influence the behavior of others. Politics is the process of acquiring and using power to make decisions that benefit an individual or a group. In public administration, power is mainly derived from the authority bestowed upon individuals occupying particular positions. The use of power can be legitimate, which is based on formal authority, or illegitimate, which is based on coercion, manipulation, or deception. Politics, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in public administration, particularly in decision-making processes. The political environment in which public administration operates significantly influences how decisions are made, and how policies are implemented. Political factors such as interest groups, lobbyists, and political parties can exert significant influence on the decision-making process. Moreover, political leaders, policymakers, and bureaucrats often engage in power struggles over resources, positions, and policies. These power struggles can lead to conflicts of interest, favoritism, and unethical behavior. Therefore, it is crucial for public administrators to be aware of the dynamics of power and politics to avoid abuses of power and ensure ethical decision-making. In conclusion, power and politics are integral aspects of public administration. The use of power can have significant implications for the effectiveness and legitimacy of public administration. Similarly, the influence of politics on decision-making processes must be managed effectively to ensure that policies are developed in the public interest. Thus, public administrators must understand the complexities of power and politics to ensure the effective and ethical operation of public administration.