AUTHORITY

 

Authority refers to the right to command or direct others and enforce obedience. The power of authority is derived from one’s office and from the consent of the people. It implies the acceptance by the people of someone’s right to rule.

This is why even military governments try to legitimize its authority by seeking the consent of the people. In a democratic society, the electorates are the primary source of power and political authority.

Sources of Political Authority

Max Weber, a German sociologist identifies three sources of political authority. They are:

1.    Traditional Authority: This is the right to rule based on customs and traditions. It is hereditary and it is based on norms, customs and tradition of a particular society. It is through this source that Obas, Emirs and Obis derive their political power.

2.    Legal Authority: This type of authority is derived from the body of rules and regulations governing a society. This is called the constitution and could be written or unwritten.

3.    Charismatic Authority: This is derived from the extraordinary qualities, which a person has that enables him to lead others. Charisma is an extraordinary quality, which a person possesses and gives him the right to rule.

Types of Authority

1.    Political Authority: This is the right of political office holders to command, make and enforce policies. The constitution confers such powers.

2.    Military Authority: This refers to the rights of the armed forces to use force to maintain law and order and security in the state.

3.    Traditional Authority: This is the power legitimized by the customs and tradition. This type of authority is acquired through inheritance.

4.    Delegated Authority: This is authority conferred on a subordinate to carry out certain powers on specified matters.

5.    Technical Authority: When a person’s authority is accepted because he is an expert in a recognized field, he has technical authority.

6.    Judicial Authority: This is the authority which the courts and judges have to issue fines or other punishments to individuals, groups or governments.

7.    Administrative Authority: This is the right of the professionals like civil servants and managers to make decisions in their respective offices and secure obedience.