Authority And Authoritarianism Similarities

The meaning and comparison between authority and authoritarianism is like comparing apples and oranges-they’re alike because they belong in the same group thus different in many regards. Authority is defined as: (1) the power to influence or command thought, opinion, or behavior;(2) persons in command. Authority derives from the Latin term augere, which translates “to create, to enlarge, to make able to grow”. Authority consist of three essential elements: the author, the agent of energy; the recipient of that creative energy; and what is authorized, the creation or achievement beyond both agent and the recipient. The spiritual and psychological aspect of authority influences those who are under it. People desire authority that’s trustworthy.
An example of the following is found in the Holy Scriptures, when Yeshua(Jesus) said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me...”(John 10:27). People who love the truth will follow someone who communicates with G-d’s truth with authority. (MacArthur, J., 2010)
Authoritarianism refers to the enforcement or advocacy of strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom (Oxford). Further, it’s counters growth and development as result of fear. Not only authoritarianism conflicts with the very essence of authority but also seeks to destroy it. (Lamb, 2009). As with all things, there are variables to consider in terms of authoritarianism. An example of extreme authoritarianism involves a tyrant leader-the oppressor who exercises absolute power oppressively. Contrary, a far less extreme of authoritarianism will be the military (excluding extremists); the exercise of authoritarianism is necessary for order, especially during the time of war.
In my opinion, authoritarianism would probably be less prevalent if leaders weren’t puffed up (i.e. egotistic), greedy or abusive. A leader does not abuse his authority (MacArthur, J. 2010)