Legitimacy of Authority

Question 1

Describe the legitimacy of authority argument.

Answer 1

Explains we obey authority because we respect credentials, and assume we know what they’re doing. This causes us to obey, even when we perceive something to be unethical or immoral.

Question 2

Strength: legitimacy of authority can explain how obedience leads to real life war crimes

Answer 2

Kelman and Hamilton (1989)
Argue My Lai massacre explained by hierarchy within US army. Soldier facing charges claims he was doing his duty.
Strength: provides real-life evidence that we’re willing to hand control of our behaviour to those we trust to exercise authority.

Question 3

Strength: research to support legitimacy of authority theory

Answer 3

Blass and Schmidt (2001)
Showed students film of Milgram’s study. Students blamed experimenter for harm; claiming responsibility is legitimate authority’s.
Strength: students recognise authority as responsible, rather than P giving shocks.

Question 4

Strength: Useful account of cultural differences of obedience

Answer 4

Milgram’s experiment in Australia: 16% give 450V
Germany: 85% give 450V
Shows in some cultures, authority is more likely to be seen as legitimate.
Strength: Cross-cultural research increases the validity of explanation.