Power and Authority

Definition

Power refers to the ability to influence or control others within a political system, while authority is the legitimate right to exercise power.

Analogy

Imagine a school principal who has both power and authority. The principal has the ability (power) to enforce rules and make decisions that affect students' lives. However, this authority comes from being appointed by higher authorities (such as school board members), giving them legitimacy.

Related terms

Legitimacy: Legitimacy refers to whether an individual or institution's exercise of power is seen as rightful and accepted by society.

Authoritarianism: Authoritarianism is a form of government where power is concentrated in one leader or group without much accountability.

Democracy: Democracy is a system where power rests with the people through voting and participation in decision-making processes.