Power can be defined as the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the best definition of "power" in Government (Political Science). The key is to separate power from related concepts like authority, legitimacy, and influence.

Step 2: Explain the concept

• Power is the ability or capacity to make others do what you want, whether by persuasion, force, or threat of sanctions. It does not have to be legitimate.
• Authority is power that is legitimate, meaning it is recognized and accepted as rightful (for example, a police officer's or a judge's authority).
• Legitimacy is the acceptance of the right to rule.
• Influence is the ability to affect others' decisions without necessarily commanding them.

A classic definition (Max Weber) says power is the ability to carry out your will despite resistance. In simple exam terms, it is the ability to command obedience.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Ability to command obedience: Correct. It focuses on the capacity to get others to comply, which is the core of power.
• B. Authority to influence others: This mixes up authority and influence, so it is not the definition of power.
• C. Legitimate right to rule: This describes authority or legitimacy, not power itself.
• D. Right to command respect: Respect is not the same as obedience, and "right" points to authority.
• E. Right to apply sanctions: This describes a legal power or a tool of enforcement, not power in general.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. ability to command obedience.

Exam tip: Remember the pairing: Power = ability (can you make people obey?), Authority = right (are you allowed to?). If an option says "right" or "legitimate," it is usually describing authority, not power.