The Power Of Power In Kindred By Octavia Butler

It is often said that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Even as this holds true throughout history, power and more specifically, exerting power over others is necessary for any society to exist. Exerting dominance, leadership and power are animalistic instincts that are necessary to maintain the order of organisms co-existing. Humans, as advanced organisms, face the unique challenge of morality and maintaining justice within societies that have had a history of being unjust because they are undeniably and unchangeably power based. This power imbalance leads directly to inequality and systemic oppression such as racism and sexism. The negative effect of power has plagued humanity throughout history and are still present in the modern world, as is exemplified in the novel Kindred by Octavia Butler. …show more content…
Her experiences raise ethical questions relating to power, oppression and corruption. Exerting power over others is only justifiable when the subjects complete freedom of will would be detrimental to their own well being. The ideal relationship between the one in power and the one not in power is most clearly and simply illustrated in the relationship between a parent and a child. This relationship is the perfect model for when power is being used morally correctly. The child is completely dependent on their parent for food and shelter, but beyond that, they need their parents to establish order and teach a certain set of ethics. It is the responsibility of the person in power to act in the best interest of their subjects and to provide them with care and protection. In the novel, Kindred, by Octavia Butler, the duality between Rufus’ childhood relationship with Dana and his relationship