Power, in political science, refers to the ability of an actor (individual, group, or state) to influence, control, or compel others to act in a way they might not otherwise choose. Understanding the 'bases of power' helps explain how this influence is exerted and maintained. A widely recognized typology of power bases was developed by social psychologists John French and Bertram Raven in 1959, identifying five primary forms:

1. Coercive Power: This base relies on the ability to punish or threaten negative consequences. It is rooted in fear and the expectation that non-compliance will lead to undesirable outcomes (e.g., fines, imprisonment, military force).

2. Reward Power: Conversely, reward power stems from the ability to provide positive benefits or remove negative ones. Compliance is motivated by the expectation of receiving something desirable (e.g., promotions, financial incentives, political favors).

3. Legitimate Power: This power derives from an individual's formal position or role within a hierarchy or system, and the belief that they have a right to exercise authority. It is often based on tradition, law, or established norms (e.g., a president, a judge, a police officer).

4. Expert Power: This base is rooted in specialized knowledge, skills, or expertise that others value. People comply because they believe the power-holder possesses superior information or competence (e.g., a scientist, a doctor, an economic advisor).

5. Referent Power: This is based on an individual's charisma, personal appeal, or the desire of others to identify with them. People comply because they admire, respect, or feel a sense of connection to the power-holder (e.g., a charismatic leader, a popular celebrity).

Beyond these, other bases of power include economic power (control over resources), military power (control over armed forces), and informational power (control over access to information). These various bases often interact and can be used in combination to achieve political objectives, shaping the dynamics of governance, social relations, and international affairs.