How much power do formal institutions have in our society?

Formal institutions, such as churches and the government, have had several impacts on present day society, as well in the past, so it is safe to say that they do have power in in our society. Churches convince people to come every sunday to praise and worship god, as well as convincing them to help out and give back to the community. They do this by appealing to the religious side of people, telling them that by going to church, you are showing how much you love our lord and savior. The government, instead of asking or persuading and not forcing people, forces changes upon the society, such as tax increases and increased gas prices. They do this and other things for the greater good of society, no matter how many people are against it. Whether a good or bad impact, these formal institutions do indeed have power in society, and it is not going anywhere anytime soon.