Sociology / Unit 9 Soc 1487 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Charismatic Authority
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The idea
Charismatic authority is legitimized by a leader's exceptional personal qualities, drawing followers through the leader rather than any office.
In practice
A movement's followers make extraordinary sacrifices because they are drawn to one leader's presence, not to an inherited or legal position.
Where people slip
Charismatic authority is a source of legitimacy, not a verdict on the leader's aims; it powers both liberators and tyrants alike.
Your place on the trail
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