Power vs. Authority
Difference between Power and Authority: – Power and authority are closely related terms, which is why they are often confused and used indistinctly by people who are unaware that they do not mean the same thing.
If you have doubts or want to know a little more about the difference between authority and power, then continue reading, because then we explain it to you.
Difference between Power and Authority
Power
Power consists of the ability to maintain the authority to manage or rule over a specific function, someone or a group; that is, who has power has the supreme authority over something.
It is a term commonly related to the political, institutional and business context. It is common to observe that in these three contexts mentioned above there is always someone or some who are in charge of maintaining all order, subjecting the majority of the citizens or the personnel under their control. For example, a judge or magistrate has the “power” to make a legal decision on any criminal act.
It is said that holding power over something or someone is not easy, since it is a fluctuating factor that can fade at any time if not given due attention; therefore, it is understood why it is defined as the maintenance of authority.
Authority
On the other hand, authority is the right to exercise power over something or someone and is assigned to an individual or group with the goal of achieving certain goals in an organization.
Whoever exercises authority in a place defines the boundaries and actions that those who are under it must take in order to ensure the success or progress of a project.
If we go to the social context, more specifically of a nation, we observe that the services related to authorities are services that involve a lot of responsibility; so that those who occupy the positions as authorities are supposed to be people as much knowledge and experience in their fields.
Finally, power is the use or manipulation of authoritarian rights; is the ability to control, while authority is the right to exercise such control. For example, a president can be considered very powerful; however, this does not mean that you have the authority to implement actions according to your wishes. Authority is owned or gained through hard work or experience, while power is the force applicable during any regiment within a social or business organization.
