A major difference between power and authority is that, authority is ________

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks how authority differs from power in Government (Political Science).

Step 2: Explain the concepts

• Power is the ability to make others do what you want, whether they agree or not. It can rest on force, coercion, or influence, and it may not be legitimate.
• Authority is the legitimate or rightful power to make decisions and be obeyed. People accept it because they believe it is right, legal, or properly acquired, through election, law, tradition, or the constitution.

So the key difference is legitimacy. Authority is recognized and accepted by the people, while power alone can be imposed.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Scarcely exercised: Wrong. Authority is exercised regularly by governments, courts, and officials.
• B. More dependent on coercion: Wrong. Coercion is more characteristic of raw power. Authority relies on consent and legitimacy.
• C. Acquired popularly: Fits best. Authority is generally gained through the people's acceptance or approval, such as elections, legal and constitutional backing, or customary recognition.
• D. Exercised through force: Wrong. Force is associated with power, not authority.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C.

Tip: Remember "Authority = Accepted". Whenever you see words like legitimate, consent, or popular acceptance, think authority. Words like force, coercion, or compulsion point to power. A military coup leader has power, but an elected president has authority.