Legitimacy:

What is legitimacy?

Legitimacy is the mass feeling that the governmental authority is rightful and should be

obeyed. Political legitimacy means having widespread approval for the way one exercises

political power.

Definition

David Bentham proposed that power could only be said to be legitimate if 3 conditions are

fulfilled: (a) Power must be exercised according to established rules (b) These rules must be

justified in terms of the shared beliefs of the government and the governed (c) Legitimacy

must be demonstrated by the expression of consent on the part of the governed.

Methods of achieving legitimacy:

A government may achieve legitimacy by existing a long time A government may also gain

legitimacy by governing justly, fairly and well taking into consideration the welfare of all

citizens

The structure of government can also contribute to its legitimacy:

A government can gain legitimacy by the manipulation of national symbols such as the

national flag, historic monuments, national day parades and emotional speeches.

Sources of Legitimacy:

Legitimacy by results: providing the basic needs of the people such as security, welfare and

respect for human rights. Legitimacy by habit: people through time become accustomed to
obeying the laws of the government. Legitimacy by historical, religious or ethnic identity:

legitimacy may come from various historical, religious or ethnic sources. Legitimacy by fear:

fearing undesired alternative can enhance the governments legitimacy. Legitimacy by

procedures: procedures can also promote and provide legitimacy.