Final answer:
Authority represents the power or right to give orders and enforce obedience, and it is the entity in whose name communications and actions are undertaken. It is based on the societal acceptance of power. Hierarchies of authority establish clear chains of command within organizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Authority is the concept that denotes the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. In various contexts such as in law, government, educational settings, or within organizations, an authority is the entity in whose name communications are sent and actions are taken. Often, authority is based on societal acceptance of power, which means people agree to follow someone because they trust and respect them, believe in the objectives and demands, and see them as reasonable and beneficial.
For example, in a governmental setup, authority might rest with elected officials who are empowered to make decisions on behalf of the people. These officials are expected to act within the confines of law and public trust, sending messages and commands in an official capacity. Similarly, in an educational setting, a teacher has the authority to give assignments to students, who in turn acknowledge the teacher's authority within the educational institution.
Hierarchies of authority establish chains of command, such as within a corporation or military, where each level answers to the one above it, leading up to the highest authority in the organization. This concept ensures that there is a clear line of communication and responsibility.