The Art of Domination and Resistance: The Subaltern Politics Hidden Beneath Submission, and the Power Dynamics Between Public and Hidden Transcripts

Drawing on examples from literature, history, politics, and folk culture, the author of this book dissects the most complex and subtle aspects of power interactions, thereby opening up a novel perspective on political behavior: "hidden transcripts."

Performing formal obedience, silently transforming all resistance, hiding it in corners where those in power cannot see, and then seizing opportunities to act—this is the way of life for those in lower positions. If one interprets the situation based only on surface appearances, one will miss the most dynamic part of power relations and overlook the strategies and agency of subordinates in the face of authority.

The endless chess game between dominant and subordinate groups leads both sides to constantly enact a drama of "one face in public, another in private": On the surface, the dominators subtly assert their ruling status, while the subordinates suppress all their thoughts and feign submission; beneath the surface, these suppressed voices, in places imperceptible to the dominant group, form a consensual discourse or physical expression among the subordinate group, serving as a critique and resistance to power relations. This shared text of the subordinates is protected by various ingenious methods, continuously growing beneath the surface, awaiting the opportune moment to leap onto the stage.

Through many examples, Scott explores the connections and differences between public and hidden transcripts, while also offering original insights into concepts such as subordination, resistance, and rebellion.