David Koyzis offers a fascinating overview of the history of authority. This is my first time exposed to such historical perspectives on this inescapable concept. I am learning as I read on. a Koyzis says that authority occurs “when person B alters his behavior at the behest of person A without being forced to do so and without evaluating her injunction according to his own standards of what is and is not appropriate to the situation.” There is a presence of intent and awareness “on the part of the two parties.” True authority then is not impositional nor despotic, but relational. Relationality and respect need to exists for authority to function properly. The absence of which leads to abuse of authority.
- Interview with Koyzis coming in the next couple of weeks on Trinity Talk (back)
