Authority, Michel Foucault, Max Weber, bureaucratic theory, social authority, power dynamics, political authority, ethical authority, legitimate authority, authority figures, decision-making, governance

Authority refers to the recognized power or right to make decisions and enforce rules. Michel Foucault examined how authority operates through social norms and institutions, while Max Weber categorized authority into traditional, charismatic, and legal-rational types. Bureaucratic theory, developed by Weber, emphasizes structured procedures and hierarchies in organizations. Social authority arises from societal norms, whereas political authority pertains to governance and law enforcement. Ethical authority is based on moral grounds. Legitimate authority is generally accepted by people, while authority figures wield influence and are involved in decision-making processes that shape governance and power dynamics in society.