Authority means

Authority refers to the legitimate right or power to give orders, make decisions, or enforce obedience. It is not an automatic right to be obeyed, but rather a right that is granted or recognized by law, tradition, or popular consent. Those who hold authority are expected to use it responsibly and in accordance with established rules and procedures, and those who are subject to authority are expected to obey its commands within the limits of law and morality. Therefore, authority is not a civic right to obey others, but a civic right to be obeyed when it is legitimate and lawful.