Unit 1: The Nature of Power, Politics, and Government

Vocabulary flashcards based on Unit 1 Lesson 1 covering the concepts of power, authority, legitimacy, and public goods.

Power

An ability or tactic of causing other people to behave in a way they might not have naturally done.

Authority

The condition achieved when a leader is granted legal permission to pass down orders, contrasted with power as a manipulation tactic to make people comply.

Legitimacy

The quality of being accepted as an authority and legal terms applying to said authority.

Legal Right to Enforce Rules

The permission given to enforce rules when there is legitimacy, such as a contract, constitution, or other legal contract.

Public Good

A product or service that is available for use.