The ability to command obedience is called

A.

authority

B.

influence

C.

legitimacy

D.

mobilization

Correct answer is A

Authority the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is the right to exercise power, which can be formalized by a state and exercised by way of judges, appointed executives of government, or the ecclesiastical or priestly appointed representatives of a God or other deities.