During the conference, one Imperial general insults Vader, referring to his foolish adherence to that antiquated religion. Echoing the perspectives of Western audiences, the general says scornfully to Vader that there is no Force. Vader gives a poignant illustration of the power of the Force by gesturing with his hand and choking the general without even touching him. Before the hapless general could die, Vader s superior orders the man released. And abruptly, with a hand gesture, Vader releases the man, who then slumps on the conference table gasping.
Strength comes from the force within, or so the scene from the movie teaches.
Take your pick. The movie has its own explanation. Eastern mystics have a similar one. As Luke is learning to use the Force, the audience is treated to explanations of its nature. It permeates all things.