Power in dialogic interaction

Power in dialogic interaction can be understood as a force which is used to influence our interlocutors by various communicative means. As such it is an integrated component of any action game. The paper gives a short overview of how power is usually dealt with in the literature, namely from the observer perspective. However, power as an integrated component means power-in-action. Power-in-action can be considered as negative or positive power depending on whether it is used in favour of or against the interlocutor. Power needs some basis to draw upon and this can range from emotional relationships to the law or practical actions involving violence. Specific rhetorical means are used to achieve the desired effect. The paper analyses pronouns of address and specific communicative means in representative and directive action games. Persuasion also means exercising some influence or power on the interlocutor. Finally, the question of moral benchmarks or norms of behaviour is dealt with.