Life Force Research Articles

Exploring Basti as Sadhyopranahara Marma through the Lens of Contemporary Anatomy

The concept of Marma in Ayurveda holds profound significance, representing vital points on the body where life force resides. Among these, Sadhyopranahara Marma is particularly critical, capable of causing immediate death if injured. Basti, one of the 19 Sadhyopranahara Marma, is highlighted for its unique properties and significance. This study aims to explore why Basti is classified as a Sadhyopranahara Marma, integrating classical Ayurvedic principles with contemporary anatomical understanding. The study examines the anatomical structure and functional significance of Basti. It elucidates Basti as the seat of Prana, composed of Alpa Mamsa Shonitha and surrounded by multiple Sira and Snayu. Injury to Basti can lead to severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability, ultimately resulting in death. Comparing Ayurvedic insights with modern anatomical knowledge of the urinary bladder, the study finds parallels in the understanding of injury mechanisms and fatal outcomes. Bladder trauma can lead to hemorrhage, peritonitis, organ dysfunction, and electrolyte imbalance, highlighting the critical nature of this region in both traditional and contemporary medical contexts. In conclusion, the study underscores the timeless relevance of Marma Shastra in understanding human anatomy and physiology. By elucidating the unique attributes of Basti as a Sadhyopranahara Marma, this enriches our understanding of Ayurvedic principles and their integration with modern medical practice. As we bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, the study emphasizes the holistic vision of healthcare that transcends temporal boundaries.

Exploring local attitudes towards current and potential future invasive wasp management in Aotearoa New Zealand

ABSTRACT Social support for pest management programs is essential to their success. In this study, we explored stakeholder perceptions of current wasp management and what attempting eradication means for them. Local stakeholders involved in 7 conservation or pest management projects across Aotearoa New Zealand were interviewed. Q-method analysis identified two major perspectives across the participants. A target-driven and ambitious perspective emerged where eradication of invasive wasps was the objective and any control method deemed effective could be used to achieve that goal. Negative impacts of management could be justified by removing the larger negative impact of wasps on the environment. The second perspective identified agreed that wasps must be managed but were characterised as more holistically minded. Control methods perceived to have negative impacts to the wider ecosystem were deemed less acceptable. Education and engagement were highlighted as essential to increase local support for future wasp management. Developing pest management strategies informed by mana whenua is especially crucial, and hapū enabled to draw on their mātauranga Māori may provide new insights into developing effective and acceptable pest management practices. Emphasis not just on technical but social and cultural aspects of wasp eradication and control will be vital for successful wasp management. Glossary of Māori words: Hapū: subtribal group; iwi: tribal group; maramataka: Māori lunar calendar; mātauranga Māori: Māori knowledge systems; mauri: life force or vital essence; taonga: precious thing or treasure; tapu: sacred, restricted or prohibited; te ao Māori: Māori worldview; tohu: a sign or indication; whakapapa: genealogy or line of descent

Versatile Shades of Economics

The concept of "Versatile Shades of Economics" explores the diverse and interconnected facets of economic theory and practice. This paper delves into the complexity of economics, emphasizing its broad scope across various dimensions, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and financial systems such as capitalism and socialism. It highlights the contrast between rational and behavioural economics, while also considering specialized fields like development, environmental, and international economics. The role of political, institutional, and feminist economics is discussed, revealing how social, cultural, and political factors shape economic outcomes. By examining these multifaceted approaches, this exploration provides a comprehensive understanding of how economics addresses global challenges, adapts to evolving societal needs, and remains a dynamic force in shaping both policy and everyday life.

Action-based explanations as a basis for the analysis and design of the social world.

In sociology, the question of what it means to explain social phenomena and how this relates to the purpose of the social sciences is important but nowadays rarely asked. This article elaborates on this question and provides an answer by outlining the program of "explanatory sociology" as a branch of the modern social science approach. It is shown that, in this framework, to explain means to uncover cause-effect relationships based on models of individuals who are assumed the central force in social life. This idea is taken further to uncover specific challenges that individuals face in social life and how and why they establish and manage (or do not) social forms that help to organize the world from the viewpoint of their abilities and needs. Such action-oriented explanations have been presented and developed in sociology since its very beginning. Two main forms or logics to construct action-based explanations are outlined and developed due to the form and function of the used action theory or model. The article contributes to the discussion about the form and task of sociological theorizing by presenting action-based explanations as a form of sociological theorizing that defines a clear task in exploring challenges in social life and assessing possible forms of coping with them from the perspective of individuals. By doing so, two main ways of broadening explanations are considered and compared in light of what the purpose of sociology might be.

Michael Tippett: Specification of the Work for Orchestra and Soprano "Byzantia"

The purpose of the research is to reveal the deep image-sound layers and features of the Irish bardic tradition in the work of M. Tippett through the prism of the work for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium". The methodological basis of the research is historical-conceptual, hermeneutic method and comparative analysis of factual data based on the works of Thomas Weiskel, David Clark, Edward Venn, and Meirion Bowen. Scientific novelty. For the first time in the Ukrainian art history segment, M. Tippett's work for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium" was analysed with an emphasis on the dramaturgy of the composition, cyclical elements, metaphorical sound images, symbolism and characteristic features of the musical and poetic tradition of Irish bards. Conclusions. Biographical collisions of M. Tippett influenced his creative aspirations and attitude to the surrounding world. M. Tippett's aesthetic views are a dialogue between romantic aspirations and sceptical realism of the modern era. Michael Tippett's musical language absorbed both tradition and the entire palette of accumulated world musical experience, as well as duality of meanings, symbolism, imagery and conflict. The work analyses the composition for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium" by M. Tippet, which is based on the mosaic of images, the logical sequence of musical motifs, and cyclicity. It is necessary to highlight the fragmentary nature of musical sections, variable motifs, the presence of contrasting material, the symbolism of magical, changing life force as secular ephemerality, the destruction of the musical text using the technique of expansion and fragmentation. Thus, the composition "Byzantium" is a reincarnation of Irish cultural nationalism in the aspect of traditional forms of bardic poetry. The musical language of M. Tippett in the work "Byzantium" is based on the forms crystallised by the work of L. Beethoven and updated by the musical context of modern and postmodern.

Mesh characteristic changes of spiral bevel gear pair with assembly errors during tooth crack propagation

Spiral bevel gears (SBGs) are often used because of their strong carrying capacity and lower vibration. However, this heightened load capacity can sometimes result in the development of tooth surface cracks. This study aims to simulate the three-dimensional propagation of cracks in SBGs under various assembly conditions and explore how the presence of cracks affects mesh characteristics. This paper investigates crack propagation in SBGs by applying principles of fracture mechanics. Employing a combination of finite element software ABAQUS and fracture mechanics software FRANC3D, the study conducts a three-dimensional analysis of crack propagation in SBGs. The study analyzes the impact of crack propagation on the lifespan and mesh characteristics of SBGs, including crack propagation morphology, transmission error, time-varying meshing stiffness (TVMS), gear life, and tooth surface force, under various assembly errors.

Ethical Leadership as a Driver of Supervisor Technical and Social Effectiveness: A Triple Helix for Cultivating Employees' Sense of Purpose

ABSTRACTA sense of purpose is generated when individuals perceive an authentic connection between their work and a broader transcendent life purpose beyond the self. Academics have shown significant positive effects of this driving force in life for employees and organizations, and thus the literature demands studies that analyze its antecedents, i.e., the potential factors that shape an individual's sense of purpose in life. Following an Aristotelian approach to virtue ethics in business, we analyze (1) whether ethical leadership enhances the technical and social effectiveness of supervisors, and (2) whether this moral asset of leaders enhances employee sense of purpose, either directly or by interacting with their technical and social effectiveness‐related dimensions. Using data from 395 employees in the Iraqi insurance and health care industry, structural equation modeling analysis revealed that, as expected, the ethical dimension of supervisors can influence employees' sense of purpose, both directly and by improving their technical and social effectiveness as leaders. Our findings thus encourage managers to practice ethical leadership to become more effective in leadership and in encouraging employees to have a sense of purpose in what they do.

Integrating Marma Sharira: Ayurveda’s Insights into Modern Traumatology

Marma Sharira, an integral concept in Ayurveda, represents vital points in the human body where the life force (Prana) is concentrated. Marma points are certain anatomical locations on the human body that are important for understanding trauma management and injury prevention in addition to preserving health. When these sites are traumatized there can be profound effects on the body and mind. Several clinical observations suggests that Marma therapy i.e. manipulation of Marma points not only accelerates the healing process but also enhances the body's innate capacity for recovery by harmonizing the flow of Prana (vital life force) facilitatingin pain management, stress reduction, musculoskeletal disorders, and enhancing overall vitality. By balancing the body's energy flow, it supports the immune system, accelerates healing processes, and improves quality of life. The paper also highlights the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach that combines traditional knowledge with modern medical procedures as reported in stroke management, and it explores how Marma Sharira's tenets might help with trauma treatment today.

Role of Pranavaha Srota Dushti in Tamaka Shwasa

In Ayurveda, “Srotas” refers to the channels or pathways within the human body through which substances flow. These channels are responsible for the movement of various elements such as nutrients, waste products, Dosha, and other vital substances. The concept of Srotas is fundamental in Ayurvedic medicine, as the proper functioning of these channels is essential for maintaining health and preventing disease. Pranavaha Srotas essentially means channels carrying the vital life force known as Prana. Dushti, referring to vitiation or dysfunction, thereby describes conditions where these channels are obstructed or malfunctioning, preventing Prana from adequately reaching all areas of the body. The resultant energy blockages can lead to numerous disorders, notably respiratory conditions. Dushti occurs from several factors like environmental toxins, inappropriate diet, or lifestyle habits, manifesting symptoms like breathlessness, diminished body energy levels, coughs, or colds. Tamaka Shwasa, an Ayurvedic correlate for Bronchial Asthma, is characterized by Kapha and Vata imbalance. Ayurvedic texts describe it as a very chronic, recurrent condition marked by symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty breathing, with the condition generally worsen during dawn and dusk. The treatment approach typically involves pacifying aggravated Dosha i.e Vata and Kapha, strengthening the patient’s immunity, and adopting dietary and lifestyle modifications. These two conditions, Pranavaha Srotas Dushti and Tamaka Shwasa, are often seen as interconnected in Ayurveda’s understanding of respiratory health. Both signify an imbalance in the body’s energy (Prana) flow due to physical or environmental factors, leading to respiratory conditions. Further exploration and consolidation of Ayurvedic knowledge with modern medicine’s advancements may pave the way for more integrative health-care strategies, providing a comprehensive approach to managing respiratory health.

Понятие ки в теории японских боевых искусств эпохи Токугава. На материале трактата Иссай Тёдзан «Рассуждения тэнгу об искусстве [меча]» 1729 г.

The concept of кi (Chinese Qi) – “pneuma”, “air”, “breath”, “spirit”, “energy”, “life force”, “matter”, etc. – is one of the fundamental and most specific cate­gories of Chinese and, more broadly, Far Eastern philosophical thought. In Japan, the assimilation of the кi category began with the penetration of Chinese reli­gious and philosophical thought. In the theory of martial arts (bujutsu) – the arts of swordsmanship, etc. – the category ki enters in the Tokugawa era (1603–1867) along with the establishment of Confucianism as the dominant current of social thought. In 1729, Issai Chozan (1659–1741) published the treatise Tengu geijutsu ron (“Discourses of tengu on the art [of swordsmanship]”), in which, for the first time in bujutsu literature, he not only systematically examined the functions of ki, but also gave practical instructions on managing ki with the help of breath­ing exercises and concentration practice, laying the foundation for the develop­ment of martial arts as one of the methods of “nurturing life” (Japanese yojo, Chinese yangsheng). The article systematizes Issai Chozan’s ideas about the es­sence and functions of the ki, and reveals the place of this concept in the peda­gogical technology of achieving mastery in martial art

History and practices on the magnanimity and sanctity of diet

From prehistoric hunter-gatherer societies to the sophisticated gastronomy of medieval royal courts, the evolution of Indian food culture underscores the integral role of food in sustaining life and fostering communal bonds. Beginning with the ancestral legacies where food was regarded as a divine gift fostering communal eating and social cohesion, this article explores the progression of food culture through the lens of historical epochs such as the Harappan civilization, Vedic period, Mauryan and Gupta periods, and the influences of Dravidian culture, Muslim rulers, and European colonization. The article highlights the pivotal role of Prana, the life force in digestion, as described in texts such as the Chandogya-Upanishad, and the impact of food on mental purity and vitality. It examines the classification of food in the Bhagavad Gita based on its effects on the Gunas (qualities), emphasizing the preference for Sattvika foods that promote longevity and happiness. The Manusmritiunderscores the cosmic significance of food offerings, linking human actions to natural elements and divine beings. The practice of Annadanam (the giving of food) is extolled as one of the highest forms of charity, reflecting a universal ethos of generosity and hospitality. The comprehensive review underscores the holistic understanding of the sanctity of food within the intricate fabric of Indian culture, intertwining spiritual beliefs, ethical considerations, and communal practices that have shaped culinary traditions and societal norms over millennia.

We are a miraculous mess and that is the only way we can be

This article introduces the second issue of Stolen Tools by exploring the concept of the love and ‘the erotic’ as described by Audre Lorde. The erotic is a deep, non-rational life force rooted in creativity, self-knowledge, and authentic emotional connections. The erotic embraces a chaotic plurality of identities; creative, free and authentic expression; and meaningful, nurturing solidarity. It is crucial for resisting racial oppression and something that Stolen Tools aspires to, even in the face of institutional and personal blocks. The second half of this piece presents the papers that constitute this issue and build on its theme. The papers in this issue include fictional stories and a poem exploring the complexities of identity, resilience, and racism, as well as articles analysing the limitations of equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in academic and clinical settings. Thank you to everyone who worked on and contributed to this issue including Ricardo Twumasi, Gabi Nieuwoudt, Rubbia Ali, and Hannah Abdalla. Particular thanks to Ebony Burke, who has been seconded from the King’s College London Library and Collections to support our project and is indicative of the creative institutional support that we survive on. I dedicate this issue to my daughter Nika, who inspired the opening article and is one year old at the time of writing.

Pratimarsh Nasya: The Philosophical Nexus Connecting Pran Vayu and Consciousness in Ayurvedic Healing

In the rich tapestry of Ayurvedic medicine, Pratimarsh Nasya emerges as a profound practice that harmonizes the breath (Pran Vayu) with the mind's consciousness. This ancient therapy not only revitalizes the senses but also bridges the gap between physical and spiritual well-being. Ayurveda, the science of life, intertwines the physical and metaphysical through various practices. Among these, Pratimarsh Nasya stands out for its unique ability to connect the vital life force, Pran Vayu, with the deeper realms of consciousness, offering a holistic approach to healing. This gentle yet potent ritual not only revitalizes the senses but also holds the promise of enhancing the quality of sleep, aligning the body's rhythms with a harmonious balance. By channeling the subtle energies of Pran Vayu and fostering a serene state of consciousness, Pratimarsh Nasya offers a holistic approach to healing that extends its benefits to improving sleep quality and overall well-being. It offers a pathway to enhance mental clarity and spiritual balance by aligning the breath with the mind's essence. Pratimarsh Nasya, a revered practice in Ayurveda, serves as a bridge between the vital force of Pran Vayu and the profound depths of consciousness. By exploring its philosophical and therapeutic dimensions, we gain insights into its transformative impact on holistic health. In the pursuit of optimal health and wellness, Pratimarsh Nasya stands out as a beacon of Ayurvedic wisdom. This practice harmonizes the dynamic energies of Pran Vayu with the contemplative aspects of consciousness, paving the way for improved sleep and profound healing. Delving into its effects reveals how this ancient tradition can be a key player in modern holistic health strategies.

“Hope is the Indispensable Life Force”: A Qualitative Study of the Meaning of Hope in the Life Experiences of Lymphoma Patients

Aim Although hope is considered to be of vital importance for cancer patients, it remains uncertain in lymphoma patients. This study aimed to examine the life experiences of patients with lymphoma and reveal the meaning of hope. Method A hermeneutic-phenomenological design was used in this study. 19 lympho¬ma patients who were receiving chemotherapy participated in interviews. Participants were selected through the purposive sampling method, and the interviews were audio-recorded. A phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used to analyze the data. Results Three themes and 12 sub-themes emerged that summarized the life experiences of patients and the meaning of hope. These themes were as follows: ‘Being in existence’, ‘Hope is the indispensable life force’, and ‘There is always hope, but it varies’. Within the scope of the sub-themes, this study showed that there were changes in the physical and emotional well-being of participants and the importance of discovering the moment. This study, which reveals the meaning of hope as a “desire to return to routine, a bridge from now to the future”, emphasized that both the patients affect hope and the factors related to the disease. Conclusion This study revealed the changes in the physical and emotional well-being of lymphoma patients, the meaning of hope in their life experiences, and the factors affecting hope. It is thought that the findings obtained will contribute to the provision of psychosocial support and care planning by healthcare professionals to strengthen hope in lymphoma patients and may guide future studies.

PENGARUH MEDIA SOSIAL TERHADAP POLA KOMUNIKASI MAHASISWA UNIVERSITAS ABDURRACHMAN SALEH SITUBONDO

Social media is one of the technological developments that has played a big role in making it easier for humans to communicate and socialize. Social media is online media that is used as a means of online social interaction on the internet. Users can communicate with each other, interact, share, network, and various other activities through social media. Communication is a process of conveying messages that involves several components or elements, such as communicator activities, messages, and communication. Communication is a very important force in human life and organizations, because it allows individuals to connect and inform each other. The research is based on the main discussion topic of the researcher's thinking about social media on student communication patterns at Abdurachman Saleh University. The data collection method used in the research was in the form of direct interviews with samples that the researchers felt were suitable as data collection media.

HARNESSING ANCIENT WISDOM: PAIN MANAGEMENT IN KATIGRAHA THROUGH MARMA CHIKITSA

Background: The Ayurvedic treatment known as Marma Chikitsa stimulates Marma points to treat pain and enhance general health. The effectiveness of Marma Chikitsa in treating Katigraha, a disorder marked by stiff-ness, limited mobility, and low back discomfort, is investigated in this study. Methods: Traditional Ayurvedic texts, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant material. Results: To reduce pain and promote healing, Marma Chikitsa concentrates on stimulating particular spots, especially Katikataruna and Kukundara Marma. These locations line up with important anatomical features related to low back discomfort. Natural anal-gesia is thought to be produced by the therapy's release of endogenous opioids and anti-inflammatory chemicals. Comparative research suggests that Marma Chikitsa provides a non-invasive, side-effect-free substitute for tradi-tional anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, which frequently have limits on their effectiveness and pos-sible negative effects. Discussion: Marma Chikitsa's holistic method, which emphasizes the equilibrium of Pra-na (life force), works very well for treating Katigraha. This therapy treats the underlying imbalances that lead to chronic pain disorders in addition to providing instant pain relief. Marma Chikitsa may improve pain manage-ment techniques and provide patients with low back pain with a full remedy if it is included into contemporary medical methods. Conclusion: Marma Chikitsa offers a viable substitute for treating Katigraha, integrating both short-term analgesia and long-term recovery. To confirm its effectiveness and make it easier for conventional medical practices to incorporate it, further empirical research and clinical trials are required. This might lead to better patient outcomes in pain treatment.

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON NEELAA AND MANYA MARMA WITH RESPECT TO INTERNAL CAROTID ARTERIAL DEFICITS

Introduction: Mookata (Complete loss of voice), Swaravaikrita (Defective voice) and Arasagrahita (Loss of taste sensation) are Abhighata Lakshanas (symptoms of injury) of Neelaa Manya marma. They are mentioned as Vaikalyakara Marmas (deformity) of the head & neck region. They are also included as avedya sira (vessels to be avoided during surgical procedure), as injury will lead to either deformities or death. In a comprehensive study done on Shiromarma Abhinaya Lakshanas in 100 patients with intracranial neurological disorders at SDMACH, Udupi, Karnataka (2014-2017), eight individuals were observed with the incidence of Mookata, Swaravaikrita and Arasagrahita having notable pathological changes in the calibre and patency in the Doppler study of the carotid arteries1,2. Aims and objectives: To understand Neelaa Manya Marma Abhinaya Lakshanas and to localise the structures involved in the lesions of neurological origin from the CT, MRI scan of the brain & Doppler imaging study of the carotid artery in the marma region. Materials and methods: Concerned Literary works, books, journals, and CT MRI scans and Doppler imaging studies collected from patients suffering from intracranial diseases were reviewed, and related information was collected and analyzed scientifically. Results and Discussion: In the pathogenic sequel of injury to any Marma sthana, aggravated vayu diffuses into the surrounding areas and spreads throughout the body via siras (vessels). Both Neela and many are included among the Vaikalyakara Marmas as well as they come under the category of Madhya siras (vessels supplying to trunk area). Here the vitiation of Dhamanis (vessels) such as Vatavaha (vessel carrying life force), Rasanagrahana (vessels responsible for taste sensation), Bhashya (vessel accountable for speech), Gosh (vessel responsible for voice artriculation) located in the neck region near the Marma Sthana, may be one of the reasons for the symptoms such as Mookata, Swaravaikrita and Arasagrahita. The branches of the internal carotid artery supply to the cortical, sub-cortical, as well as the thalamic & sub-thalamic areas of the brain. Any occlusion of these vessels will undoubtedly result in the ischemia or infarct of the areas of its supply, causing functional deficits such as Aphasia, dysphonia, dysphagia, etc. Conclusion: This was a review article based on the observational study representing the fact that it was possible to clinically assess the Neelaa Manya marma abhinaya lakshanas on patients diagnosed with intracranial lesions with internal carotid arterial deficit, especially notable pathological changes in the calibre and patency in the Doppler study of the carotid arteries.

Exploring Marma Points Activation during Vajrasana Practice

Abstract: Introduction: Yoga is an ancient Indian discipline that strives to combine an individual's physical, mental, and spiritual components. Vajrasana, also known as Thunderbolt Pose, is a foundational Yoga pose noted for its stability and advantages to meditation and physical wellness. This study investigates the anatomical alignment and advantages of Vajrasana, focusing on its effect on Marma points, which are essential energy centers in Ayurvedic treatment.Methods; The study involves a thorough examination of Ayurvedic classics, Yoga manuals, and contemporary investigations to determine the anatomical and physiological consequences of Vajrasana.Practitioners practiced Vajrasana, and the effects on certain Marma points were studied using observational and analytical methods.Results; Vajrasana was discovered to strongly activate numerous important Marma points, including Kshipra, Gulpha, Indravasti, and Vitapa. The posture promotes blood circulation, strengthens the lower back and pelvic muscles, and improves digestive function. By stimulating these Marma points, Vajrasana enhances the passage of Prana, the essential life force, leading to improved bodily and mental well-being.Discussion; The study emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of Vajrasana in Yoga practice. The stimulation of Marma points in this posture is consistent with Ayurvedic teachings, implying a holistic approach to health that incorporates physical postures with the body's energy framework.Vajrasana's role in modifying Prana and increasing overall vigor underscores its significance in both ancient and modern Yoga practices.

Contrasting philosophical and scientific views in the long history of studying the generation of form in development

Focusing on the opposing ways of thinking of philosophers and scientists to explain the generation of form in biological development, I show that today's controversies over explanations of early development bear fundamental similarities to the dichotomy of preformation theory versus epigenesis in Greek antiquity. They are related to the acceptance or rejection of the idea of a physical form of what today would be called information for the generating of the embryo as a necessary pre-requisite for specific development and heredity.As a recent example, I scrutinize the dichotomy of genomic causality versus self-organization in 20th and 21st century theories of the generation of form. On the one hand, the generation of patterns and form, as well as the constant outcome in development, are proposed to be causally related to something that is "preformed" in the germ cells, the nucleus of germ cells, or the genome. On the other hand, it is proposed that there is no pre-existing form or information, and development is seen as a process where genuinely new characters emerge from formless matter, either by immaterial "forces of life," or by physical-chemical processes of self-organization.I also argue that these different ways of thinking and the research practices associated with them are not equivalent, and maintain that it is impossible to explain the generation of form and constant outcome of development without the assumption of the transmission of pre-existing information in the form of DNA sequences in the genome. Only in this framework of "preformed" information can "epigenesis" in the form of physical and chemical processes of self-organization play an important role.

The Power of Purity: Preliminary Notes for an Archaeology of Modern Jurisprudence

AbstractIn this paper I will try to subsume what Carl Schmitt referred to as the three types of juristic thought – positivism, decisionism and institutionalism – under the same 'signature of power’. With this expression I refer here to a general enunciative function that informs (legal) thought, forcing it to perform an (ex-ceptional) articulation of (form of) law and (force of) life. My suggestion is thus that it is possible to interpret the different approach to the law question of two fatherly figures of modern jurisprudence – Hans Kelsen (positivism) and Carl Schmitt (decisionist-institutionalism) – in a way which, while mantaining that there is indeed a difference between their theories, points also towards a more fundamental partnership which concerns the very form (i.e. ex-ceptionality) of their questioning. The purpose of this paper is thus to show that the fundamental differences between these two approaches become indistinguishable if re-considered in the context of a broader problematisation of power which, following Giorgio Agamben’s reinterpretation of Foucault’s work on biopolitics, can here be defined as an ideology of govern-mentality according to which, simply put, sociality can be reduced to one, two-sided, operation: government/self-government through a decision on the form of law, to be perfomed at different levels, including thought. Legal theory as practiced by Kelsen and Schmitt is, in this respect, governmental or biopolitical, because it institutes a fictional threshold of indifferentiation between law (form) and life (force), whose preservation, by means of further (ex-ceptional) articulations (i.e. inclusive-exclusions), becomes the jurist’s fundamental task. Moreover, given the central role of both Kelsen’s positivism and Schmitt’s decisionist institutionalism for modern legal theory in general, a critical reflection on the act of (legal) theorising as such as an act of power is made possible. The modern tradition of legal theory can thus be interpreted – in spite of its increasing complexity and fragmentation (which was already reflected, at the beginning of the last century, in the fragmentation of legal theory into positivist, institutionalist and decisionist stances) – as preserving thought’s power to relate law and life. One possible alternative to a theory of (i.e. that belongs to) power is, I think, a practice of critical observation (a study) of the power of theory.