Legitimacy of authority

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

We learn that society is organised in a hierarchical structure where recognised authority figures like parents, teachers and government officials occupy different positions of power.

Question 2

Destructive authority

Answer 2

Relates to when these authority figures (i.e. Hitler) take advantage of this and ask us to carry out orders to cause others harm.

Question 3

Evaluation strength: cultural differences

Answer 3

Replication by Killham & Mann found different levels of obedience in cultures like Australia.

Question 4

Evaluation strength: can explain real life examples

Answer 4

E.g. Mai Lai massacre, US troops killed 504 unarmed civilians and said they were just ‘obeying orders’.