Two Conceptions of Authority

Abstract

Abstract This chapter situates the concept of authority within a constructivist theory of practical reason and differentiates two conceptions of authority. An instrumental authority provides a service to agents through its norms by helping them better conform to their own reasons for action. Agents are rationally required to comply with the norms of a legitimate instrumental authority, and those norms must depend on their reasons for action, benefit their practical reason, and conform to morality. Relational authority holds between two persons, one who has the right to demand and another who is obligated to obey, when the normative basis of that relationship is acceptable to both as free and rational persons. The demands of a legitimate relational authority impose obligations, which must be consistent with this basis, conform to morality, and be intelligible. This chapter also offers a theological excursus that reflects on divine authority in view of the Jewish tradition.