Authority vs. Power: The Philosophical Divide Between Earned Influence and Enforced Control

In the governance of human affairs, few words are as frequently conflated and dangerously misunderstood as “power” and “authority.” We often use them interchangeably, yet they represent fundamentally opposing principles of human interaction. Power is the ability to compel action through force, while authority is the recognized right to direct. Understanding this distinction is not merely an academic exercise; it is essential for any individual who seeks to live a […] Read more »