Power and authority are closely related, yet clearly distinguishable concepts that are crucial in understanding the nature and substance of politics and governance.
First, power is a much broader concept, with various definitions. Bertrand Russell has defined it as ‘the production of intended effects’, while Robert Dahl defined it as a kind of influence exercised upon another to ensure their compliance. It may be legitimate (having consent; willing acceptance) or may be illegitimate.
Authority is a particular form of power i.e., the power which is backed by consent i.e., legitimacy. Hence, authority is seen as always legitimate. Here legitimacy means the consent, sanction or approval of the people to the power, based on willing compliance. This is different from that concept of power, which is generally based on coercion and fear.
Second, authority is an effective means of exercising power, as it invests rightful power in the holder (of power) and commands obedience. It symbolizes the belief of the people that it is for their own good. This makes the exercise of authority a constructive act. While power has a negative connotation attached to it for it may coercive. Such power forces individuals, groups or people to mend their ways and conform to the will of holder of power.
Third, the power relationship is hierarchical; it is a dominant-dependent kind of relationship, which subordinates the people. And above all it is imposed. Whereas since authority is based on consent and willing acceptance, it is not an imposed hierarchical relationship.
Fourth, authority is generally seen as more democratic as it is based on willing acceptance and support. On the other power is looked at as undemocratic as it may involve imposition and coercion.
Fifth, authority imparts stability, decorum and durability to the system while power on its own can lead to chaos and rebellion, it is for this reason that the instruments of these two differ significantly; for example, power can be exercised by the coercive means such as military conquest of people. But in order to sustain this victory, legitimacy will have to be sought by way of deploying tradition, elections, or personal charisma, which will enable establishment of authority.
The opposite of this may also be true. That is, when legitimacy diminishes, power may be used in order to force obedience of groups or individuals. Therefore, if we think of power as a naked sword, authority may be envisaged as a sword in its scabbard.
Finally, authority and power both can increase or decrease but for different reasons. When in a power relationship, the very ability of influencing others is diminished for any reason, it inevitably leads to loss of power. On the other, authority erodes when the followers lose belief in the positions of authority.
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General Studies