Power, legitimacy, and authority are three core concepts in political science, but they are often confused with each other. In this six-minute video, I explain the meaning, differences, and deep interconnection between power, legitimacy, and authority using simple language and real-life examples.
Power refers to the ability of an individual or institution to influence or control the behaviour of others, even against their will. Power can exist through force, money, influence, or position, but it does not always require moral or legal approval.
Legitimacy is the moral and legal justification of power. When people believe that a ruler or government has the right to rule, power becomes legitimate. Legitimacy creates trust, acceptance, and voluntary obedience among citizens. Without legitimacy, power survives only through fear and coercion.
Authority is institutionalised and legitimate power. It is power that is recognised, accepted, and obeyed as rightful. Authority exists in governments, constitutions, courts, police, teachers, and parents. Unlike raw power, authority does not rely on force alone; it rests on acceptance and belief.
This video also explains Max Weber’s classification of authority—traditional, charismatic, and legal-rational—using modern and historical examples. Through clear illustrations like dictatorship vs democracy, police power, elected governments, and everyday social situations, the video shows how power becomes authority only when backed by legitimacy.
Understanding the relationship between power, legitimacy, and authority is essential for students of political science, sociology, governance, UPSC, State PCS, and general awareness. This video helps build strong conceptual clarity with minimum jargon and maximum understanding.
⏱️ Timeline Breakdown (6 Minutes)
00:00 – 00:40
Introduction: Why power, legitimacy, and authority are often confused
00:40 – 01:50
Meaning of Power with simple examples (force, influence, money)
01:50 – 02:50
Meaning of Legitimacy and why acceptance matters more than force
02:50 – 03:50
Meaning of Authority and how it differs from raw power
03:50 – 05:10
Relationship between power, legitimacy, and authority (with examples)
05:10 – 06:00
Max Weber’s types of authority + quick recap
#Power
#Authority
#Legitimacy
#PoliticalTheory
#PoliticalScience
#Governance
#Democracy
#StateAndPower
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