Deference to authority

Definition

Deference to authority refers to an attitude or cultural norm where individuals willingly submit or yield power to those in positions of authority without questioning their decisions or actions.

Related terms

Authoritarianism:

A form of government characterized by strong central control and limited individual freedoms. Individuals are expected to unquestioningly obey those in power.

Paternalism: Similar to deference to authority, paternalism involves someone in power making decisions for others based on what they believe is best for them, often without consulting them.

Obedience: The act of following orders or instructions given by someone in authority without question or hesitation.