Types of Authority

Understanding Types of Authority

Definition of Authority:

• Authority refers to the legitimate power which one person or group possesses and practises over another.
• The element of legitimacy is vital to the notion of authority and is the main means by which authority is distinguished from coercion, force, and power.

Traditional Authority:

• Traditional authority is based on customs, history, and long-established practices.
• Those who respect tradition see the holder of this authority type as having the right to command, with resistance seen as disobedience or disrespect.
• An example can be found in a monarchy, where the monarch has authority because of tradition and historical precedent.

Legal-Rational Authority:

• Legal-rational authority is authority based not on tradition or charisma but on laws, procedures, and rules.
• Holders of legal-rational authority derive their right to command from established laws, and obedience is not personal but institutional.
• Uniformed protective services primarily operate on the basis of legal-rational authority.

Charismatic Authority:

• Charismatic authority stems from the personal qualities, charm, or the perceived extraordinary abilities of an individual.
• People follow because they are drawn to the individual’s character and what that person represents.
• This type of authority can be unpredictable and unstable as power is not institutionalised. Its effectiveness highly depends on the perception and faith of the followers in the charisma of the leader.

Application of Authority in Uniformed Protective Services:

• Understanding the nature of various types of authority is crucial in uniformed protective services. This knowledge helps to identify the source of a person’s authority and their right to command.
• Discipline in the uniformed protective services is directly linked with the understanding and implementation of authority. The concept of authority ensures a chain of command and a clear line of reporting in structured organisations such as the police or fire service.
• Balancing different types of authority, such as combining legal-rational authority with elements of charismatic authority, can create a more effective leadership style in uniformed protective services. It can promote respect, obedience, and cooperation among team members.

Negative Implications of Misused Authority:

• Authority can be misused, leading to issues such as corruption, abuse of power, and unjust practices.
• It’s crucial for those in positions of authority in uniformed protective services to uphold high moral and ethical standards, ensuring their authority furthers the welfare of the public and their teams.
• Regular training, laws, rules, and regulations are in place within uniformed protective services to prevent and mitigate misuse of authority.