Page 162 - DCOM102_DMGT101_PRINCIPLES_AND_PRACTICES_OF_MANAGEMENT

Principles and Practices of Management

Notes 9.2.2 Types of Authority

Various analysts have given various theories to categorise authority. A few of the classifications
are as under:
1. Traditional authority: Traditional authority is legitimated by the sanctity of tradition.
The ability and right to rule is passed down, often through heredity. It does not change
overtime, does not facilitate social change, tends to be irrational and inconsistent, and
perpetuates the status quo.
2. Charismatic authority: Charismatic authority is found in a leader whose mission and
vision inspire others. It is based upon the perceived extraordinary characteristics of an
individual.
3. Legal-rational authority: Legal-rational authority is empowered by a formalistic belief
in the content of the law (legal) or natural law (rationality). Obedience is not given to a
specific individual leader – whether traditional or charismatic – but a set of uniform
principles.
4. Technical Authority: Technical Authority is entrusted upon a person to establish, monitor
and approve technical products and policy. Technical authority increases the responsibility
and sets accountability.
5. External Authority: External authority authority comes from sources outside the
organisation. An organisation operates legitimately because it is part of the government,
operating in accordance with the laws passed by the Parliament, which, in turn, is elected
by people, who are the ultimate source of all authority.

Task Match the following:

Column A Column B
Charismatic People are willing to accept the legitimacy of the authority of others
because it is derived from formal rules and laws
Traditional People are willing to accept the legitimacy of the authority of others
because of historical precedent
Rational legal can be said to have traditional authority
Hitler, Gandi and Jesus can be said to have had charismatic authority
Tony Blair can be said to have rational legal authority
Queen Elizabeth II People are willing to accept the legtimacy of the authority of others
because of their special personal qualities

9.2.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Authority

Like everything else, authority also has its advantages and disadvantages. Let us look at them
one by one.

154 LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY