Authority surrounds us.  Our culture, and therefore our basic behaviours, are shaped by authority structures.   From political leaders to the police our lives are governed by external authority.

Basic authority is defined as the the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.  Without this structure, whether from the head of household to leader in the workplace our lives would be chaotic.

It is a natural human trait to recognize and respect authority.  This is  basically a genetically inbred herd mentality present in all humans although influenced by nuture factors and therefore practiced to varying degrees, based on each individuals personal behaviour.

On the whole though, the majority of people need authority to function and respect and accept it’s presence.  Few (criminals and the like) adhere to authority less stringently (but still need some).

Empowering Others

Leaders and other obvious authority figures function most effectively when they are able to balance their power with those they interact with.  That is, power sharing or empowerment of others.

This practice does not diminish a persons authority but rather enhances it if the proper balance is achieved.   The major challenge is to determine where that balance lies so authority is maintained but results are enhanced.

A dictoral practice of authority is typically easier to employ (balance not needed).  Additionally this usually leads to immediate results although they might not be of the highest quality or sustainable.

For higher quality sustainable results over the longer term employing some level of empowerment is advisable.