In political theory, authority is best understood as

Correct answer: D. The accepted right to issue binding commands

  • A. The number of laws passed by a state
  • B. The physical ability to defeat opponents
  • C. The total wealth controlled by rulers
  • D. The accepted right to issue binding commands

Explanation

Authority means a recognised and legitimate right to command, so citizens generally regard obedience as justified. Mere power can force compliance without being considered rightful.

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About Political Theory

Political theory examines the state, power, authority, sovereignty, law and the relationship between citizens and government. It covers liberty, equality, justice, rights, democracy and major ideologies, alongside the arguments of thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx and Rawls; it differs from comparative government, which focuses on actual institutions.

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