Final answer:
The dimensions to gauge an authority's track record are integrity, ability, and benevolence, with status also playing a role in the perception of authority. Integrity relates to moral uprightness, ability to skills and competence, and benevolence to goodwill toward others.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dimensions by which we gauge an authority's track record include integrity, ability, and benevolence. These aspects relate to how consistently an authority figure acts with moral uprightness, their competency in their role, and their kindness or goodwill, respectively. Status can also be a factor as it denotes the prestige or rank that a person holds in society, which can impact how their authority is perceived.
Specifically, integrity is about honesty and moral principles, ability is tied to the skill set and competencies needed to execute a role effectively, while benevolence touches upon the willingness to do good and act in the interest of others. Status is more about social positioning rather than a direct measure of an authority figure's capacity or track record.
Authority is essentially accepted power where individuals or a group are followed because they are deemed worthy of respect and their directives are seen as reasonable and beneficial.