Power is a fundamental concept in political and social theory, shaping relations between states, institutions, and citizens. At the same time, resistance has been central to contesting authority and driving social change. This article explores the dynamics of power and resistance by examining the role of the state, the agency of civil society, and the emergence of social movements. Drawing on classical and contemporary perspectives, it highlights how power operates both structurally and discursively, and how resistance manifests in forms ranging from everyday acts of defiance to mass mobilizations. The paper concludes by reflecting on the transformative potential of social movements in shaping more equitable and democratic societies.