1. Mann argues that power exists in the context of power networks, within which the different sources of power are intertwined in flexible and variable ways. Power networks are the frameworks of societies, which are networks of social interaction characterised by power relationships.
2. Other social scientists see societies in terms of more definite systems of power relations, i.e. more closed and hierarchically organized structures. Thus they propose reductive concepts of power in which one source is seen as determinant, with explanatory priority:

• many IR Realists see states as units in an international system of states, - priority of political and military power over economic and ideological/cultural power.

• Marxists see an opposite hierarchy of 'levels' in social formations, especially the capitalist system - economic power has priority over political and military power.

• Some post-modern and gender theorists stress the priority of cultural relations and forms of power

Spheres in society

• economy/mode of production, state (politics+military), culture/ideology, characterised by different kinds of power
• international and domestic spheres as characterised by different kinds of power relations. 

division of labour in the social sciences:

• Sociology, politics, etc. have seen society/politics in terms of domestic realities
• IR has analysed interstate relations separately from domestic politics.
• However with globalization, these divisions have started to break down.

interests and values 

Analyses of international relations in terms of power tends to emphasise the role of interests. If actors tend to pursue power, of whatever kind, then are their values anything more than rationalisations of their interests?

(question for next time)