Political authority Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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political authority

[pəˈlɪtɪkəl əˈθɒrɪti ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

government

Political authority refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience within a government or a specific area. It is the legitimate use of power to control and regulate the behavior of individuals within a society.

Synonyms

control, governmental power, jurisdiction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
political authority	Used when referring to the general power or influence that political leaders or institutions hold. Often used in formal or academic discussions. The rise of new political authority in the region has brought significant changes. Questions about the limits of political authority are central to political theory.
governmental power	Specifically refers to the powers held by government institutions or officials. Commonly used in discussions about laws, policies, and administrative actions. Governmental power is often checked by constitutional limits. They debated the extent of governmental power in regulating industry.
jurisdiction	Used when referring to the official power to make legal decisions and judgments, particularly within a specific geographic area or over certain types of cases. The court has jurisdiction over cases involving federal law. The city police department does not have jurisdiction outside city limits.
control	Typically used when describing direct oversight or regulation of a specific area, organization, or process. Can have a slightly negative connotation when implying dominance. The central government maintains strict control over the country's media. She tried to wrest control of the committee from her rival.

Examples of usage

Political authority is necessary for maintaining order in a society.
The President's political authority allows him to make important decisions for the country.
The government's political authority extends to matters of national security.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

Political authority has roots in ancient civilizations where kings and emperors ruled over large territories and their subjects.
The concept evolved through systems like feudalism, where land was divided among lords who held power over peasants.
In the Enlightenment era, philosophers like Hobbes and Locke discussed the rights of rulers versus the rights of the governed, shaping modern political thought.

Political Theory

Max Weber identified three types of authority: traditional (based on customs), charismatic (based on personality), and legal-rational (based on laws).
Modern democracies rely on legal-rational authority, where laws and constitutions govern political power rather than individual leaders.
The social contract theory posits that citizens consent to give authority to governments in exchange for protection and order.

Cultural Perspectives

Political authority is often symbolized through flags, anthems, and other national symbols that evoke a sense of belonging and order.
In many cultures, authority figures such as elders or community leaders play critical roles in decision-making processes.
Authority can vary significantly across cultures, from hierarchical systems to more egalitarian and participatory approaches.

Psychology

Research shows that people are generally more likely to follow leaders perceived as trustworthy or competent.
The Milgram experiment showcased how individuals may obey authority figures even against their moral judgments.
Authority often influences group dynamics, leading to conformity where individuals align with group norms despite personal beliefs.

Contemporary Issues

In democratic societies, political authority is increasingly challenged by social movements fighting for equal rights and justice.
The rise of technology and social media has altered the landscape of political authority, enabling grassroots movements to gain visibility.
Debates about surveillance and privacy highlight tensions between state authority and individual freedoms, changing perceptions of power.

Origin of 'political authority'

The concept of political authority dates back to ancient civilizations where rulers asserted their power over territories and populations. Throughout history, various forms of government and political systems have emerged, each with its own understanding of authority and governance. The idea of political authority has been a subject of philosophical debate, with thinkers like Thomas Hobbes and John Locke offering different perspectives on the nature and legitimacy of political power.