Which type of authority is based on legal rules and articulated regulations?

The concept of authority can be categorized into different types, and rational-legal authority is distinguished by its foundation on established laws and regulations. This type of authority is characterized by a system of rules that are officially documented and recognized within a society. Followers of rational-legal authority adhere to this power because it is derived from legality and the structure of institutions, such as governments or organizations, which create a sense of legitimacy through formal procedures.

Rational-legal authority is prevalent in modern societies where bureaucratic structures dominate, and decision-making is grounded in established regulations rather than individual charisma or traditional practices. This allows for predictable and organized governance, as authority is not based on personal traits or ancestral lineage, but on the legal frameworks that dictate how authority is exercised and maintained.

In contrast, charismatic authority derives its influence from the personal qualities and exceptional characteristics of an individual leader. Traditional authority relies on established customs and longstanding patterns of behavior within a culture or society. Religious authority stems from beliefs and practices rooted in religious doctrine and is influenced by spiritual leaders. These other forms of authority do not center on codified legal structures, which reinforces why rational-legal authority is the correct classification in this context.