Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

Which source of authority is derived from customs and long-established practices?

1. Rational-Legal

2. Charismatic

3. Traditional

4. Staff

The correct answer is: Traditional

The source of authority derived from customs and long-established practices is identified as traditional authority. Traditional authority is characterized by a deep-rooted legitimacy based on historical precedents, societal norms, and the consistent continuation of practices that have been accepted over time. This form of authority often stems from the long-standing customs of a society, leading people to follow those in power due to their adherence to these established traditions. In contrast, rational-legal authority is based on legal rules and regulations, where authority is derived from established laws and procedures rather than customs. Charismatic authority, on the other hand, is tied to an individual's personality and ability to inspire and attract followers, often leading to authority that's more ephemeral and less grounded in tradition. Staff authority typically refers to roles that provide support and expertise rather than directly influencing leadership through customs or longstanding practices. Understanding the nuances of these types of authority is crucial in the study of organizational behavior and leadership dynamics, with traditional authority particularly emphasizing the importance of historical context and societal acceptance in establishing legitimate power structures.