Final answer:
Sociologists distinguish between power and authority, the former being control over others and the latter being legitimate influence. Max Weber's definitions and types of authority are key in sociological studies. Sociological frameworks such as functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism apply these concepts to assess societal structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
While sociologists do analyze both power and authority, it is not accurate to say they use the terms interchangeably. Power is defined as an entity or individual's ability to control or direct others, whereas authority is the influence that is predicated on perceived legitimacy. German sociologist Max Weber was instrumental in differentiating these concepts by identifying the types of authority: traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal authority. Weber's insights are fundamental to understanding how sociologists view power and authority within societal structures and political realms.
The three major sociological perspectives, functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism each offer a different framework for understanding how power and authority affect individuals and societies. They look at cooperation versus competition, and shared values versus competition for resources, to analyze societal structures and power dynamics. Knowing the difference between power and authority helps to understand government actions and social inequality, as power can be both subtler and more coercive across various contexts.