How Does Harold Lasswell Defined Politics?
Harold Lasswell, a prominent political scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of political science through his various theories and definitions. One of his most notable contributions is his definition of politics. Lasswell’s definition of politics has been widely accepted and has influenced the way scholars and practitioners understand the nature and scope of political activity.
Lasswell defined politics as “who gets what, when, and how.” This definition, often referred to as the “Who-What-When-How” formula, emphasizes the distribution of values and resources among individuals and groups in a society. According to Lasswell, politics is a process of competition and conflict over scarce resources, power, and influence. This definition highlights the central role of power in politics and the importance of understanding how power is acquired, maintained, and used.
In the first part of his definition, “who gets what,” Lasswell focuses on the allocation of resources and values. This aspect of politics involves the distribution of wealth, goods, and services among individuals and groups. It also encompasses the distribution of power and influence, which can be in the form of political, economic, or social power.
The second part of Lasswell’s definition, “when,” refers to the timing and sequence of events in the political process. It recognizes that politics is not a static phenomenon but a dynamic process that unfolds over time. The timing of political actions and decisions can have significant implications for the distribution of resources and power.
The third part of the definition, “how,” addresses the methods and strategies used to achieve political goals. Lasswell emphasizes that politics involves various forms of interaction, negotiation, and coercion. It encompasses the use of political institutions, laws, and norms to achieve desired outcomes.
Lasswell’s definition of politics has several implications for the study of political science. First, it underscores the importance of power as a central concept in understanding political phenomena. Second, it highlights the role of competition and conflict in political processes. Third, it emphasizes the dynamic nature of politics and the need to analyze political events and actions in their temporal context.
Furthermore, Lasswell’s definition of politics has been influential in shaping the agenda of political science research. It has prompted scholars to investigate the sources and distribution of power, the dynamics of political competition, and the strategies used by political actors to achieve their goals. By focusing on the distribution of values and resources, Lasswell’s definition has also encouraged researchers to examine the social, economic, and political factors that shape political outcomes.
In conclusion, Harold Lasswell’s definition of politics as “who gets what, when, and how” provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the nature and scope of political activity. This definition emphasizes the central role of power, competition, and conflict in politics, while also highlighting the dynamic and temporal aspects of political processes. Lasswell’s definition has had a lasting impact on the field of political science, shaping research agendas and contributing to our understanding of political phenomena.
