A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

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Prepare for the A Level Sociology OCR Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with helpful hints and explanations. Ace your exam and enhance your understanding!

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Which kind of power is exemplified by a bureaucrat monitoring financial transactions?

Charismatic power
Rational-legal authority
Traditional authority
Symbolic power

The correct answer is: Rational-legal authority

The answer is rational-legal authority, which is characterized by a system of rules and procedures that are formally established and legally recognized. In a bureaucratic context, a bureaucrat monitoring financial transactions operates within a structured framework of regulations and formalized authority. This type of power derives legitimacy from established laws and procedures rather than personal attributes or traditional customs. Rational-legal authority emphasizes the importance of rules and regulations that dictate how organizations and societies function. Bureaucrats are expected to act based on these legal frameworks, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law in their duties, such as monitoring financial transactions. This form of authority contrasts sharply with charismatic power, which is based on an individual’s personal qualities, and traditional authority, which is rooted in long-standing customs and practices. Symbolic power refers to the influence that comes from the meanings assigned to symbols, which does not align with the structured nature of bureaucratic monitoring.