There are three types of Authority:
Traditional Authority – We do these things because we have always done them this way (culture), and we do not question whether it is right or legitimate. Examples include:
– Patriarchy
– Rule over others without question
– Handed down from the past
– Given legitimacy by custom
Charismatic Authority – Different from Traditional Authority but linked. Individuals or authority that is worshipped. Examples include:
– Worship
– Good and bad charisma
– Given legitimacy by leader’s magical powers, revelations.
– Complying with them because people want to appease the charismatic leader.
Rational-Legal Authority – Backed by Violence…
– Elected Leaders
– Policemen
– The status allows them to rule
– Electing anchors legitimacy
– Central to the rational society
– Do it because they have a monopoly of violence.
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