Weber and Marx on domination and authority

Domination According to Weber and Marx

Three types of domination or authority are distinguished by Weber. Below is a discussion of each, together with how they fit together with some of the theories by Marx.

Traditional

Traditional authority depends upon the perceived "sanctity" of established traditions of authority. Also, those exercising the authority are seen as legitimate, and thus unquestioned. Thus both the institution of traditional authority and the persons working under this tradition are respected without question, based upon the collective social perception that such systems are correct as a result of their previous establishment.

Thus the administrative structure associated with this kind of domination is particularistic and diffuse. Patriarchalism and feudalism are characteristics of such a structure, not giving much room for negotiation to those being dominated.

Rational-Legal

Rational-legal authority is based upon the perception of "legality." A set of rules are established for the exercise of such authority. These rules are respected as a result of their establishment under a law that is respected. Those exercising authority under these rules are then also perceived as having the right to do so, as such a right is granted by the respected law.

Structures associated with this kind of authority are more universal; thus room for negotiation is open, and the system is closer to a democratic system. Thus those under this authority have the option of negotiation. This is closer to the structures that are found in contemporary society. The work place has become more democratic.

Charismatic

Charismatic authority depends solely upon the person exercising authority, rather than upon an established system of rules or ideals. The perceived charisma of the person commands respect for any rules or order ordained. Such charisma might entail an exemplary character or exceptional heroism.

The structures associated with this kind of authority are the most open-ended in terms of ruler-subordinate relationships. Negotiations are based only upon the personal relationship between rulers and subordinates.

Through the above systems of authority Weber thus shows how authority has changed over time. In our world the most often-occurring structure of authority is the latter two, where subordinates are granted the right to voice concerns and raise issues without fear of reprimand.

Marx bases his observations upon value. Previously, value has been attached to labor, as labor was a unique skill offered by the laborer. Thus authority was exercised in equal amounts by both laborer and the purchaser of the labor. The purchaser of labor had a need, and this need was filled in a unique way by a laborer. This system is closest to what Weber describes as rational-legal authority, with perhaps some elements of charismatic authority. Power was shared in equal amounts by the laborer and the purchaser.

The problem arises with the advent of the machine. Labor power is no longer unique, and the value of labor has become obsolete. Value is entirely attached to machines, and the laborer is now dependent upon the purchaser. This is an unequal dependency, as the purchaser now has a wider variety of labor force to choose from.

The machine also includes women and children in the labor force, and the purchaser now has sole authority over the laborers. This is closest to the traditional form of domination. The purchaser holds domination over the laborer. Work hours and personnel employed depend upon the decision of the authority, whereas laborers, needing food on their tables, are obliged to comply with whatever laws are established. These laws are accepted, as the laborer finds that the world order leaves him or her no other choice.

Thus value is no longer attached to the uniqueness of the labor offered, but rather to labor time. Authority then is directly connected with the idea of labor time. Thus capitalism, according to Marx, takes power away from the laborer, placing it solely in the hands of the labor purchaser. This provides an unequal system, with power in the hands of only a few traditionally appointed, feudal leaders.