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Types of Political Authority

This topic explores Max Weber's classifications of political authority, including traditional, rational-legal, and charismatic authority. Each type has distinct implications for governance and decision-making, shaping how power is perceived and exercised within various political systems. Understanding these forms of authority is crucial for analyzing political legitimacy and the dynamics of leadership in contemporary society.

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1

Which type of political authority is characterized by leaders being chosen through a democratic electoral process?

In a democracy, people vote to choose their leaders. Other options are incorrect because An autocracy is when one person has all the power; An oligarc...

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2

Which type of political authority is characterized by the personal appeal and extraordinary qualities of a leader, often leading to loyalty and devotion from followers, while also involving the concept of sovereignty?

Charismatic authority comes from a leader's charm and unique qualities. Other options are incorrect because Some might think traditional authority is ...

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3

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between sovereignty and electoral systems in a democratic government?

Electoral systems let people vote for their leaders. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that the way we vote decides if a country ha...

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4

How does the legitimacy of a political authority influence the effectiveness of electoral systems within a civil society?

When people trust their leaders, they are more likely to vote. Other options are incorrect because Some might think elections can work without trust i...

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5

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between legitimacy, coercion, and democracy in political authority?

Democracy needs legitimacy, which means people believe in the system. Other options are incorrect because This suggests that force is the only way to ...

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6

Which of the following best describes the concept of legitimacy in political authority?

Legitimacy means that people accept and recognize a government's right to rule. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that using force ...

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7

Which of the following best defines sovereignty in the context of political authority?

Sovereignty means a state can rule itself. Other options are incorrect because Some might think checks and balances show sovereignty; People may confu...

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8

Which type of political authority primarily relies on coercion to maintain order and control?

This type of authority uses force or threats to keep people in line. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this type is about old custo...

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9

Arrange the types of political authority as they typically influence the legitimacy of governance from most stable to least stable: A) Rational-Legal Authority → B) Traditional Authority → C) Charismatic Authority → D) Revolt against Authority

Rational-Legal Authority is based on laws and rules, making it very stable. Other options are incorrect because This suggests that traditional customs...

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10

If a government is able to maintain stability and order without resorting to force, which underlying type of authority is most likely being exercised?

This type of authority is based on laws and rules. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this means following old customs; People might...

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11

Traditional authority : established customs :: Charismatic authority : ?

Charismatic authority comes from a person's charm or appeal. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that authority comes from rules ...

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12

In Max Weber's framework, the type of political authority that derives its legitimacy from established customs and traditions is known as __________ authority.

Traditional authority comes from long-standing customs. Other options are incorrect because Rational-legal authority is based on laws and rules; Chari...

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13

Which of the following are types of political authority as classified by Max Weber? Select all that apply.

Rational-legal authority is based on laws and rules. Other options are incorrect because Some might think traditional authority is about customs and h...

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14

In a political system, which type of authority relies on established customs and historical precedents to legitimize governance?

This type of authority is based on long-standing customs and traditions. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this is about strong lea...

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15

Which type of political authority is exemplified by a monarch who inherits the throne and governs based on longstanding traditions and customs?

Traditional authority comes from customs and history. Other options are incorrect because Some might think a leader's charm gives them power; People m...

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16

Which type of authority relies on established customs and traditions for legitimacy?

Traditional authority is based on long-standing customs. Other options are incorrect because This type is based on laws and rules, not traditions; Cha...

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17

In a small country experiencing a leadership crisis, a new leader emerges, captivating the public with their charm and vision for change. This leader gains support not through established laws or tradition but by inspiring citizens on an emotional level. Which type of political authority best describes this situation?

This leader uses their charm and vision to connect with people. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this leader follows old customs; ...

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