Question

Explain Webber definition of power and the types of power: Traditional, Associate, Charisma . The role of authority (Traditional, Coercive, and behind the scene) as well is as the role power plays in different society such as pluralist.

Answer 1

• The sociologist and philosopher Max Weber distinguishes three types of authority—charismatic, traditional and legal-rational—each of which corresponds to a brand of leadership that is operative in contemporary society.
• First, charismatic authority points to an individual who possesses certain traits that make a leader extraordinary. This type of leader is not only capable of but actually possesses the superior power of charisma to rally diverse and conflict-prone people behind him. His power comes from the massive trust and almost unbreakable faith people put in him.
• Second, traditional authority indicates the presence of a dominant personality. This leader is someone who depends on established tradition or order. While this leader is also a dominant personality, the prevailing order in society gives him the mandate to rule. This type of leadership, however, is reflective of everyday routine and conduct.
• Third, legal-rational authority is one that is grounded in clearly defined laws. The obedience of people is not based on the capacity of any leader but on the legitimacy and competence that procedures and laws bestow upon persons in authority. Contemporary society depends on this type of rationalization, as the complexities of its problems require the emergence of a bureaucracy that embodies order and systematization.
• Weber’s definition of power in society has remained the starting point for many sociologists. He defined power as being,the ability of an individual or group to achieve their own goals or aims when others are trying to prevent them from realising them.
• From this Weber identified power as being either authoritative or coercive. Authoritative power is exercising power which is seen as legitimate. By being legitimate it is effective because those who are subject to the power do so with consent.
• In contrast coercion is where someone exercises power through force – you’re forcing someone to do something against their wishes.
• In a political system based on ‘traditional authority’ power is legitimised by ancient customs. The authority of the ruler is generally founded on unwritten laws and it has almost a sacred quality. Tribal leaders and monarchs have always relied on traditional authority. From the historical point of view it has been the most common source of legitimating of power. Traditional authority tends to be more common organisation which stress upon continuity with the past and the upholding of widely shared values and beliefs.

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