Share Legitimacy in Global Politics
Save to Folder
What is legitimacy?
The general acceptance that a political actor or institution has the right to exercise power.
Who was Max Weber?
A German sociologist, economist and political thinker.
How many types of legitimate authority did Weber identify?
3
What are Weber's three types of legitimate authority?
Traditional, charismatic and legal-rational.
What is traditional legitimacy based on?
Customs, history and traditions.
What is charismatic legitimacy based on?
The exceptional qualities or personality of a leader.
What is legal-rational legitimacy based on?
Rules, laws and institutions.
Why do people obey traditional authority?
Because it is based on long-standing customs and traditions.
Why do people obey charismatic leaders?
Because they believe the leader is special, extraordinary or inspiring.
Why do people obey legal-rational authority?
Because laws and institutions are seen as fair and consistent.
Give one example of traditional legitimacy.
.
Give one example of charismatic legitimacy.
.
Give one example of legal-rational legitimacy.
.
How do free elections contribute to legitimacy?
They allow citizens to choose their representatives and ensure accountability.
Why is legitimacy important for political stability?
Because people can accept and obey authority without the constant use of force.
A king is accepted because his family has ruled for generations. What type of legitimacy is this?
Traditional legitimacy.
