How have notions of legitimate authority and followership changed across different periods of Western history?
How have notions of legitimate authority and followership changed across different periods of Western history?
Perceptions of legitimate authority and the association of individuals have changed throughout the Western history. Political philosophers have popularized various governance ideologies that have shaped the political history of the Western world. The main notions that have informed legitimate authority in different periods of western history include the concepts of Anarchism, Absolutism, Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism (Thomas, Douglas & Price, 2004).
Anarchism is the earliest notion of legitimacy authority and fellowship. This perception popularized a belief that all aspects of governance should be abolished because they are repressive. Later, changes in social and political perception led to the adoption of the concept of Absolutism. This notion dominated most of the traditional Western civilization’s history. Absolutism included the belief that a single leader should have authority over every element of the government and the people’s lives. Consequently, states where ruled by absolute leaders who had titles such as the king, emperor and prince among others. Furthermore, the notion believed that leaders have some divine authority and capability (Wills, 1995).
In the premature modern period of the Western world or around 1500s, various changes occurred that prompted the adoption of the notion of liberalism. These changes included the European realization of the Americans, the growth of Protestantism, initiation of the free-market economy and the beginning of the scientific revolution (Wills, 1995). This perception emphasizes the significance of individualism, freedom, equality and rationalism. The French Revolution highlights the adoption of the idea of liberalism when the monarchy and numerous churches were destroyed (Thomas, Douglas & Price, 2004).
The late changes in the legitimacy authority within the Western world include the conservatism and socialism. Conservatism emanated from a reaction against liberal concepts that presented risks to the Europe during the French revolution and towards the end of 19th century (Thomas, Douglas & Price, 2004). Political philosophers criticized liberalism claiming that it destroyed tradition. Conservatives emphasized stability, concreteness and human fallibility within fellowships. Later, Industrial revolution led to the evolution of the socialism. The notion initiated in England towards the end of the 18th century and had dominated most parts of Europe and America by late 19th century (Wills, 1995). This concept emphasizes the need of collectivism, public ownership, centralized planning and economic equity. Presently, the notion is practiced under the concepts of communism and democratic socialism.
References
Thomas, W., Douglas A., H., & Price, T. (2004). Traditional Classics on Leadership. Northampton, MA: Edward Elgar.
Wills, G. (1995). Certain trumpets: The call of leaders. New York: Simon & Schuster.
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