All governments and their supporters attempt to justify their power by the arguments and rituals of legitimacy. The claim to ultimate power authorized by principles of right, morality, or destiny is what distinguishes the state from other organizations and institutions. The study of legitimate power thus lies at the heart of political science. Rodney Barker examines the accounts that have been given of legitimacy within the principal traditions of political
analysis. Drawing on recent historical examples, he argues for a more diversified understanding of the function and the character of political legitimacy. Rulers, he suggests, are often far more concerned about legitimizing their power than those whom they govern. Barker proposes the study of legitimacy
as a form of political life not merely derived from other interests or purposes, but as a central characteristic of government.
- ISBN10 0198274955
- ISBN13 9780198274957
- Publish Date 6 September 1990
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Oxford University Press
- Imprint Clarendon Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 224
- Language English