Authority is the idea of having the right or power to make decisions and control others, and it is considered legitimate when people accept it. This concept is often linked with power but is different because authority is recognized as rightful or legal by society. For example, the government, or the state, has the authority to make laws and expect citizens to follow them. When people accept the rules and commands given by those in charge, that power becomes authority. Max Weber, a famous sociologist, explained that authority is the ability to make others follow your will by using legitimate means, such as laws or rules. In a society, authority plays a big role in social ranking because it helps determine who has control over important decisions. Some people or groups have more authority than others, leading to conflicts, as those without authority may want to change the system to gain more power.
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