Power

If it is true that 'power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely', as a familiar saying goes, then an analysis of the notion of Power should expose its intrinsic malignity. In Physics, Power is defined as Force functioning over a distance for a stretch of time, as a explanation of natural phenomena in general. So, hurling accusations at it in this regard is as misguided as blaming Gravity for an injurious fall. A more ambitious treatment of it is from Nietzsche, in his theory Will to Power, an attempt to extend the notion to organic phenomena. Nietzsche intended this as a rival to Will to Live, as an attempt to explain human motivation at its most fundamental. It proposes that humans aim at mastering, not merely persisting: physical brutality, the sculpting of marble, and self-control are all manifestations of Will to Power. Like the Will to Live, and the Newtonian concept of Power, it is an objective hypothesis, the validity of which depends on its comprehensiveness and coherence. So, blaming it for anything is not only once again pointless, but exposes itself to questions as to what are Power designs of the blamer. In fact, application of 'absolute power corrupts absolutely' to itself only reveals its own internal corruption, namely, if it were absolutely true, and therefore, held absolute sway over people's actions, then, by its own formulation, it would be corrupt. But that is not a problem with Power per se, only with the saying. The real issue here is analogous to blaming a fall on Gravity. Corruption is a function not of 'Power' but of the character of someone in a position of power, someone unequal to the responsibilities that are entailed. For, the converse of inadequate leadership is capability not having access to power.