Final answer:
The presence of a uniform increases the perceived legitimacy of an authority figure, thereby enhancing the likelihood of obedience. Legitimacy differentiates from mere power as it implies a socially accepted right to influence or command, which uniforms symbolize effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The finding that participants are more willing to obey an authority figure who is in a uniform than one who is not in a uniform illustrates the importance of the legitimacy of authority. Uniforms can act as a powerful symbol of legitimacy, indicating that the individual has been endowed with societal or organizational power and that their directives should be followed. In social psychology, this aligns with concepts such as the Milgram experiment, where individuals displayed a high degree of obedience to authority figures. Uniforms and other symbols enhance the perception of an authority figure's legitimacy, making it more likely that their commands will be obeyed without resistance.
The concept of legitimacy is crucial, as it is based on the perceived legitimacy of the individual in power. This is different from mere power, as power can be exercised without legitimacy, but it may not be as effective or accepted. Therefore, legitimacy is a cornerstone of an authority's influence over others, since it denotes a general acceptance of that authority's right to exert power and influence.