Social Philosophy Chapter 11

Study Notes

Concept of Political Power

Political power enables control over others' actions, often under duress.
Compliance stems from fear of sanctions, which can be either positive (reward for compliance) or negative (punishment for refusal).
Power can manifest as either naked force (arbitrary) or legitimate authority (consented by the governed).
Sources of political power include elections (democratically elected leaders), military force, wealth, and knowledge/technology.

Concept of Political Authority

Political authority grants formal rights to create and enforce laws that citizens are expected to follow.
Authority is rooted in public acceptance rather than just fear of sanctions.
It embodies the right to command and influence compliance with directives, with respect typically afforded to office holders such as legislators.

Types of Political Authority

Traditional Authority:
- Rooted in customs and traditions of communities.
- Typically exercised by chiefs or councils of elders.
- Power is often hereditary, exemplified by leaders like Obas and Emirs.
Charismatic Authority:
- Based on the exceptional qualities of a leader that inspire loyalty and allegiance.
- Commonly found in religious contexts, with figures like Jesus Christ and Mohammed as key examples.
- This authority is volatile, fading with the leader's departure and not easily transferred to successors.
Legal Rational/Bureaucratic Authority:
- Established by constitutional frameworks in modern democracies.
- Exercised through three branches of government: executive, legislature, and judiciary.
- Authority is derived from laws and recognized protocols rather than from individual leaders.

Description

Explore the complex relationship between political power and social philosophy in Chapter Eleven. This section discusses how power can compel individuals to act against their will due to the fear of sanctions. Delve into the concept of political influence and its implications on education and society.