SUMARIO: Introduction: contrasting theories of political power in american society - Political elements in power - The influence of the economic elite on politics and government - The military and other elites - Alienation and participation: a comparison of group leaders and the mass - Voluntary association - Issues in the study of local community power - Perception of power and influence - Political structure and political influence in Texas - How Kennedy won the democratic nomination - The passage og legislation: the politics of financing mnedical gare for the aging - Some problems of politics: money, ethics, and citizen participation - Conclusion - index