Power and Legitimacy in Western Political Thought

Abstract

Power and legitimacy remain foundational concepts within Western political thought, shaping the architecture of governance, authority, and societal order across historical epochs. This paper critically examines the evolution of these intertwined concepts from classical antiquity to contemporary political theory, emphasizing how different thinkers have conceptualized the justification and exercise of authority. Moving beyond descriptive exposition, the study interrogates the normative and empirical tensions embedded in the relationship between coercion and consent, legality and morality, and institutional authority and popular sovereignty. The analysis traces key intellectual transitions—from the teleological frameworks of classical philosophy to the contractualism of early modern thinkers, and finally to the structural and discursive interpretations of modern theorists. Particular attention is given to how legitimacy is constructed, maintained, and contested in varying political contexts, including liberal democracies and authoritarian regimes. The paper also integrates recent scholarly debates that re-evaluate legitimacy in the face of globalization, digital governance, and democratic backsliding. Through analytical synthesis, the study demonstrates that legitimacy is not a static attribute but a dynamic process contingent upon institutional credibility, normative justification, and public perception. Ultimately, the paper contributes to contemporary discourse by highlighting the enduring relevance of classical ideas while situating them within present-day political challenges.