Legitimacy Slides

Descriptive Representation

the idea that a
group elects an individual to represent them
who in their own characteristics mirror some of
the more frequent experiences and outward
manifestations of the group

Substantive Representation

occurs when

representatives' opinions and actions reflect the

wishes, needs, and interests of the people they

represent.

What ppl look for in politicians

Competence

Expertise

Morality

Honesty

Common Sense

Responsiveness

try to address the issue

Hear from people and respond

Keep their promises

Does fixing democracy start with the people

Be more informed

First, citizens being more informed is seen as crucial. Respondents argue that

informed citizens are able to vote more responsibly and avoid being misled by

surface-level political quips or misinformation.

Participating more

Second, some respondents want people in their country to be more involved in

politics – whether that be turning out to vote, protesting at key moments or just

caring more about politics or other issues.

Being better people

Third, the character of citizens comes up regularly – respondents’ requests for

their countrymen range from “care more about others” to “love God and neighbor

completely” to asking that they be “better critical thinkers,” among myriad other

things.

Role of Legitimacy

Legitimacy fosters acceptance and support

for political entities, which is crucial for

maintaining social order.

Consequences of Lack of Legitimacy

Without legitimacy, authorities may use

coercion, resulting in instability, conflict, and

potential civil unrest.

Definition of Legality

refers to the strict adherence to laws and

regulations as established by governing authorities (upholding the Consitution)

Understanding Legitimacy

involves the acceptance and justification of

authority by society, extending beyond mere legal

frameworks.

Legal vs Legitimate

A regime can maintain legality but fail in legitimacy if it does

not have the consent of the governed.

Roots in tradition

Traditional authority is fundamentally based on customs and

historical practices that shape societal norms

legitimacy through inheritance

Leaders in traditional authority often gain their position through

inheritance, highlighting the importance of lineage

Rituals and Symbols

Rituals play a crucial role in establishing legitimacy, often using

symbols that represent the values of the society.

Traditional Authority Examples

- Queen Elizabeth II of the

United Kingdom

- Saudi Arabian monarchy

- Japanese Emperor

Definition of Charismatic Authority

based on the extraordinary

qualities of a leader that inspire loyalty and devotion among

followers

Inspiration and Attraction

Leaders with charismatic authority can inspire and attract

followers, especially during challenging times, creating a

strong emotional connection.

legitimacy through Charisma

The legitimacy of charismatic authority derives from the

leader's ability to rally support and foster trust through their

personal magnetism.

- Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Steve Jobs

Definition of Rational-Legal Authority

a system of governance

based on established laws and procedures

Importance of Legal Frameworks

Legitimacy in rational-legal authority is derived from adherence to

legal frameworks, ensuring orderly governance

Rules and Regulations

The governance system is characterized by rules and regulations

that guide decision-making and authority

Examples of Rational-Legal Authority

- U.S. Presidents elected through constitutional processes

- German Chancellor following electoral and parliamentary procedures

- Supreme Court Justices appointed through established legal frameworks

Mutual Agreement

Social contract theory is founded on the idea that authority

comes from a mutual agreement between the rulers and

the ruled.

Legitimacy of governance

This theory emphasizes that governance's legitimacy arises

from the consent of those governed, ensuring fair authority

Societal Contract

Social contract theory highlights the importance of societal

contracts that bind rulers and citizens in a governing

relationship.

Emergence of Modern theories

critique traditional views,

emphasizing the need for new frameworks in understanding

authority.

Globalization’s Impact

reshaped how legitimacy is perceived and

analyzed, introducing new dimensions to authority and

governance

Identity Politics

play a crucial role in contemporary legitimacy,

influencing how power dynamics are understood and

challenged

Populsim and Legitimacy

has emerged as a significant force in politics,

challenging established legitimacy with its emphasis on

popular will.

Economic Downturns

can severely undermine the

legitimacy of a regime, affecting public trust and support

Social Unrest

often signals a loss of legitimacy, as citizens

express dissatisfaction with governance and policies

Political Corruption

erodes trust in institutions and can

significantly challenge a regime's claim to legitimacy

Mechanisms for Maintaining Legitimacy

Public Engagement:

Effective public engagement helps governments connect

with citizens and understand their needs, fostering a sense

of legitimacy.

Transparent Governance:

Transparent governance ensures that government actions

and decisions are open to scrutiny, building trust among

citizens.

Responsive Policies:

Responsive policies demonstrate that governments can

adapt to the needs and concerns of their citizens,

Impact on Governance and Stability

Importance of Legitimacy:

Legitimacy is essential for effective governance, as it

determines the citizens' willingness to adhere to laws.

Political Stability:

Effective governance fosters political stability, which is

crucial for social order and national development.

Social Order:

A legitimate government promotes social order by ensuring

citizens follow laws and regulations, leading to a

harmonious society.

Impact on Governance

- Determines citizens' willingness to comply with state authority

- Shapes political institutions' effectiveness and public trust

- Influences government's capacity to implement policies

Political Stability Consequences

- High legitimacy reduces likelihood of political unrest

- Strengthens democratic processes and peaceful power transitions

- Mitigates risks of revolution or regime collapse

Social Order Dynamics

Provides psychological foundation for collective social cooperation

- Reduces need for coercive control mechanisms

- Facilitates smoother institutional functioning

Key Mechanisms

- Legitimate governments require less direct force

- Citizens voluntarily accept governmental decisions

- Institutional procedures become self-reinforcing

Destabilizing Factors

- Perceived illegitimacy can trigger social movements

- Challenges to authority increase potential for conflict

- Loss of legitimacy undermines governmental effectiveness

Legitimacy in International Relations

Role in Diplomatic Recognition：

Legitimacy is vital for states seeking diplomatic recognition

from other nations, which enhances their global presence.

Importance in Cooperation：

States with legitimacy are more likely to cooperate with one

another, fostering alliances and partnerships on the

international stage.

Conflict Resolution：

Legitimacy facilitates conflict resolution, as states are more

inclined to engage in dialogue and negotiations with

recognized entities.

Conclusion

Importance of Legitimacy：

Legitimacy is crucial as it shapes

governance and influences public trust in

political systems.

Legitimacy in Governance：

A solid understanding of legitimacy

enhances our assessment of political

authority and the effectiveness of

governance.

Implications for International

Relations：

Legitimacy affects international relations,

impacting how states interact and form

alliances.