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Formal authority is a right to control resources and direct people that applies to a particular context. This term implies that authority is widely recognized and highly enforceable. This can be contrasted with informal authority such as influence that is based on soft power. The following are common types of formal authority.
Legitimate AuthorityAuthority that is generally recognized by both rulers and ruled. For example, a society with a government based on long standing legal traditions that is recognized as an authority by the vast majority of people in the society.Coercive Authority Authority based on overwhelming power such as the military and police powers of a state. This can be considered formal because it often widely recognized and is clearly enforceable.
Popular SovereigntyAuthority based on the consent of a people. This is typically based on a system of voting for elected representatives. A popular revolution could also claim legitimacy based on the consent of the people.Traditional AuthorityAuthority based on tradition such as the traditional rules of government adopted by a society.
Sovereignty The right to rule a nation without interference by other nations or international organizations. This is typically based on popular sovereignty, traditional authority or both.Legal-RationalLaws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and processes that create authority structures based on the authority of a power such as a government. For example, a government that grants limited authority to the administrators of a government department that allows the department to fulfill its objectives.
Positional AuthorityAn employee or representative of an organization who is given limited authority based on their role. For example, a manager who is given control of resources such as IT systems and authority to direct a team.Individual SovereigntyThe natural rights and freedoms of a person. These are rooted in the principle of self-ownership whereby an individual is free to direct and control their own life.|
| Type | | | Definition | A right to direct and control that is generally recognized and highly enforceable. | | Related Concepts | |
Organizational Structure
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