Weber’s theory of Authority features three types, all of which are aimed towards creating an awareness of how authority is legitimated as a belief system. This paper compares and contrasts the three different types while also identifying their individual strengths and weaknesses.
Traditional authority is whereby the traditional rights of the dominant individual or group is accepted, and not even challenged by the subordinates (Weber, 1968). This domination is based on the claim by the dominant, and belief of the subordinates, that there is indeed virtue in respecting age-old rules and powers. The strength of this is that people will have no choice but to obey and respect the dominant. Unfortunately, the dominant may misuse this power given to him by tradition to mistreat the people. For example, a priest in a church is a traditional authority.
Charismatic authority is defined as mainly worshiping the exceptional holiness, heroism or exemplary character of the dominant as well as the normative patterns ordained by him (Weber, 1968). Here, it is the charisma of the individual that earns him the authority since followers tend to associate this aspect with a supernatural being, or one with exceptional powers and qualities. The strength here is that the people determine their leader themselves. Weakness is that the followers may have to keep changing leaders all the time, which may be difficult if they do not want to let go of the power. For example, Diefenbaker, Trudeau, and Levesque from Canadian history.
Rational authority is one whereby legitimate domination rests on rational grounds. It rests on a belief in the legality of enacted rules and rights of those who are in authority (Weber, 1968). The strength here is that subordinates can challenge the authority. Weakness, on the other hand, is that it may take long for any immediate actions to be taken even after challenging this authority. An example of such authority may include the U.S President Obama.
Reference
Weber, M. (1968). Economy and Society: An Outline of Interpretive Sociology. New York, Bedminster Press.
