LS8 - Legitimacy Of Authority

Question 1

2 Main Explanations Of Obedience

Answer 1

Agentic State Theory
Legitimacy Of Authority

Question 2

Hierachal Society

Answer 2

People in certain positions hold authority over the rest of us.

Question 3

Legitimacy Of Authority

Answer 3

Suggests that people will obey someone they perceive to be ‘above’ them in the social hierarchy.

Question 4

Legitimacy Of Authority Strengths

Answer 4

Helps Society Function Well
Explains Cultural Differences

Question 5

Legitimacy Of Authority Of Weaknesses

Answer 5

Not All Authoritative Figures Should be Obeyed

Question 6

Helps Society Function Well (+)

Answer 6

e.g. without police society wouldn’t function well.

Question 7

Explains Cultural Differences (+)

Answer 7

Kilham and Mann (1974) replicated Milgram’s study in Australia and found 16% went to the all voltage. However, Mantell (1971) replicated Milgrams’ study in German y to find 85% did which shows how cultural different cultures have different upbringings.

Question 8

Not All Authoritative Figures Should Be Obeyed (-)

Answer 8

Even if we disagree we might obey an authoritative figure which isn’t right because they can abuse their power e.g. Harold Shipman, who killed over 200 patients without suspicion because he was a well-known trusted doctor.. Ultimately, a balance must be struck between teaching children to obey authority figures, but also encouraging them to sometimes question the orders, in case they’re destructive.