What term did Max Weber use to describe power that is made legitimate by law?

Max Weber introduced the concept of legal-rational authority to describe a form of power that is deemed legitimate through established laws and rules. This type of authority is characteristic of modern societies where power is organized around legal frameworks, and officials are expected to act in accordance with these laws rather than personal whims or traditional customs.

Legal-rational authority is fundamentally tied to bureaucratic systems, where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, fostering efficiency and stability. In this framework, individuals follow the authority not due to personal loyalty or inherited status, but because they recognize the legitimacy of the legal system in place.

Understanding this concept is vital for comprehending how contemporary institutions function and maintain order. It contrasts with traditional authority, which relies on established customs, and charismatic authority, which is based on the personal appeal of leaders. Bureaucratic authority is closely related but emphasizes the organizational structure rather than the legitimacy conferred by legal frameworks.