In the context of functions of governments, discuss the terms power and authority.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary. Governments decide how conflicts will be resolved so that public order can be maintained. Governments have power-the ability to influence the behavior of others. Power is getting someone to do something that he or she would not otherwise do. Power may involve the use of force (often called coercion), persuasion, or rewards. Governments typically also have authority, which they can exercise only if their power is legitimate. As used here, the term authority means the ability to use power that is collectively recognized and accepted by society as legally and morally correct. Power and authority are central to a government's ability to resolve conflicts by making and enforcing laws, placing limits on what people can do, and developing court systems to make final decisions. For example, the judicial branch of government-specifically, the United States Supreme Court-resolved the highly controversial question of whether the Second Amendment to the Constitution grants individuals the right to bear arms. In 2008 and 2010, the Court affirmed that such a right does exist. Because of the Court's stature and authority as a government body, there was little resistance to its decision, even from gun control advocates.