Authority and compliance

Authority refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience, often stemming from a recognized position, expertise, or social status. Compliance is the act of following these orders or adhering to requests, typically influenced by the perceived legitimacy of the authority. In general knowledge contexts, understanding this dynamic helps explain why individuals might accept and follow instructions or norms, even if they might not fully agree with them, reflecting the complex relationship between power and behavior in society.