Political authority
Theory of political legitimacy
It studies what might ground an institution’s right to direct and enforce collective decisions.
Historical context
Political philosophy distinguishes the effective power to govern from the right to issue commands. That distinction runs through debates about legitimacy and obligation.
Overview
An order can coincide with what it is already prudent to do. Authority adds the question of whether the order supplies a reason for action by coming from a competent institution.
Main claims
Legitimate authority requires explaining where the normative force of decisions comes from.
Debates and nuances
The power to enforce decisions and the right to do so are distinct properties.
This entry provides educational context.