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
how political power is analysed in this book: chapter structure
6.2 Different Approaches to Politics
political beliefs, ideas about government, party policy
6.3 Political Legitimacy
authoritarianism, democracy, their legitimacy, 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.