6 Political Authority
Politicians exert political authority over the population, with its agreement, taking decisions for it and acting as its representatives
6.1 An Overview of Political Power
politicians’ responsibilities and the context in which they operate
6.2 Different Approaches to Politics
ideologies and ideas about the role of government, political parties
6.3 Political Legitimacy
political systems and their acceptability, behaviour of politicians
6.4 Political Pressures
pressures on politicians: public, media, business, interest groups
6.5 Consulting the People
representing the people, consulting them, finding out what they want
6.6 Political Subsidiarity
domains of political control, sovereignty, co-operation
6.7 Major Issues Requiring Political Negotiation
controversial political issues, areas of disagreement
6.8 Pressing for Better Government
political accountability, getting the best out of politicians
The next chapter examines ungoverned power, or self-protection, which is needed when structured governance breaks down.