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Difficulty: EasyAuthority: Definition, Scope, and Weberian Typology

A political leader commands widespread public compliance purely because citizens admire their extraordinary personal heroism, inspirational leadership, and exemplary character. According to Max Weber's typology of authority, which form of authority is demonstrated in this scenario?

  1. Charismatic authorityAnswer
  2. B
    Coercive power
  3. C
    Legal-rational authority
  4. D
    Traditional authority

Answer

Charismatic authority
Charismatic authority is based on belief in the exceptional sanctity, heroism, or exemplary character of an individual leader, causing followers to willingly obey their commands.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the primary source of legitimacy described in the question stem
Compliance is driven by admiration for the leader's personal heroism, unique appeal, and exemplary qualities.
Max Weber classifies types of authority based on the foundational source from which their legitimacy is derived.
2
Match the identified source of legitimacy to Max Weber's typology
Legitimacy derived from extraordinary individual character corresponds to charismatic authority.
Unlike traditional authority (rooted in custom) or legal-rational authority (rooted in written law), charismatic authority stems directly from an individual's personal magnetism.

Key Concept

Weberian Typology of Authority
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Topics

Authority: Definition, Scope, and Weberian Typology

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