What are the sources of legitimacy?

The sources of legitimacy can be broadly categorized into several types, as discussed by various experts:

1. Brute Force: Legitimacy can come from the control and fear exerted by powerful individuals or groups. This form of legitimacy doesn't necessarily require the approval of the governed but rather their submission through coercion and control. Nation-states often invoke this form as a means to maintain order and authority 1.

2. Fairness: This source of legitimacy arises when actions or systems are perceived to be fair and unbiased, catering to everyone's interests without favoritism. An example is the credible neutrality concept in network security funding, where fairness leads to easy acceptance by a broad audience 1.

3. Process: Legitimacy by process involves systems or actions that are accepted because they follow a recognized and accepted procedure, such as democratic elections. The process gives people a sense of participation and influence, even if outcomes aren't always favorable to them personally 2.

4. Performance: Effective outcomes can also grant legitimacy. A regime or system that consistently delivers good results, such as economic growth or stability, can earn legitimacy through its performance. This form is seen in successful dictatorships or, more contemporarily, in certain cryptocurrencies whose legitimacy may be tied to positive performance indicators 2.

5. Consensus and Coordination: Legitimacy is heavily dependent on human coordination and consensus. Broad acceptance and recognition across diverse groups help solidify legitimacy, making judgments and actions seem more universally applicable 1.

6. Legal Transparency and Objectivity: In democratic societies, legitimacy often hinges on transparent and lawful processes, such as fair elections where rules are upheld impartially. This legal grounding ensures trust and acceptance from the populace 3.

   Sources of Legitimacy

   Ryan Adams

   Vitalik Buterin

   Vitalik Buterin discusses the various sources of legitimacy and how it is heavily dependent on human coordination and consensus. He explores legitimacy through brute force and fairness, highlighting the importance of satisfying intuitive conceptions of fairness and not unfairly favoring certain groups of people.

   

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   64 - Legitimacy | Vitalik Buterin

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These sources highlight that legitimacy varies widely, from coercive power to democratic fairness, with effective governance often balancing multiple types to maintain stability and acceptance.