Abstract In 1950, Adorno, Frenkel-Brunswick, and Levinson and Sanford delved into the concept of the authoritarian personality (TAP). Some of their prime assumptions include that those with TAP are submissive to authority and look to them for the definitions of right and wrong; that they are prejudiced towards an out-group, which they consider weak and inferior. The present study is based on these assumptions. An opportune sample of 100 male students of "hard sciences" were given a questionnaire assessing their susceptibility to an authoritarian source of information over that of a non-authoritarian source, along with Rokeach's Dogmatism scale (measuring authoritarianism). No significant correlation was found between the two factors. Although the findings do not support Adorno, et. al.'s assumptions, they provide evidence for forthcoming theories.
From the Paper "Hitler, Mussolini and many other political and national leaders of the 1930-1950 period adopted and pushed authoritarianism as a strong challenge to democracy. Followers flocked to their banners" (Whitten, 1976, p.622). In an attempt to explain this phenomenon, Adorno, Frenkel-Brunswick, Levinson and Sanford (1950, which will be referred to in the text as AFLS) carried out a search for possible roots and causes of the Authoritarian Personality (TAP) type. Starting at the roots of anti-Semitism, it became a psychological study of ethnocentrism based on Freudian Psychodynamic theory. A person with TAP was defined as "a potentially fascistic individual, one whose structure is such as to render him particularly susceptible to anti-democratic propaganda" and these individuals "exhibit numerous characteristics that go together to form a syndrome", Adorno et al (1950, p.1). These were conventionalism, authoritarian submission, authoritarian aggression, superstition and stereotypy, power and toughness, destructiveness and cynicism, projectivity, concern with sexual goings-on and dogmatism. Some argued that this definition was too limited and too concerned with political opinion, thus defining it as "the desire to impose one's will on others" Ray (1976 cited in Louw-Potgieter (2001), p.78)."
Abstract The paper introduces right wing authoritarianism and the authoritarian personality as post-World War II models of social psychology. In the present, these models are taken up again to explain right wing authoritarian prime ministers, as we see that authoritarianism is by no means the preserve of fascist, communist or otherwise non-democratic regimes. The paper provides 10 references with a focus on Adorno's circle.
From the Paper "After the Second World War, social psychologists discussed the authoritarian personality, in an attempt to explain Europe's ultra right-wing Fascist movements and leaders and why millions of people had accepted them, most often referring to Hitler or Mussolini. Theodore Adorno (1903-1969) saw the authoritarian personality as extremely conformist, respectful of authority, intolerant, given to ideals of power and cynical, insecure and rigid stereotypes of others. (Adorno et al: 1950) An authoritarian personality respects rules, rather than taking personal responsibility, as in Adolf Hitler's belief that Nazi persecution of Jews, Gypsies and dissidents was right, for the good of the German people and serving the best interests of Europe at large."
Abstract In today's classroom environment there are many teaching methods and supervision techniques in use. These methods range from the authoritarian approach to the passive approach, providing a wide array of results in academic performance, levels of unacceptable behaviors and overall classroom environments. This paper examines the authoritarian approach to teaching and supervision and discusses the benefits of such a teaching method. Additionally, the paper presents the writer's opinion of why the authoritarian method of supervision is ideal for use in grade school classrooms.
From the Paper "Additionally, the authoritarian teacher emphasizes rules and discipline. Failure to obey those rules is followed by appropriate punishment techniques. While positive reinforcement is certainly used to encourage good behavior, negative reinforcement is often used to discourage inappropriate behaviors. In short, authoritarian supervision of students depends upon the teacher acting as the ultimate authority, providing direction in all classroom activity and making most classroom decisions (Hawley, 1996)."
Abstract This paper examines the work of Thomas Hobbes and suggests that he was an authoritarian political theorist. In particular, the paper examines Hobbes' attitudes vis-a-vis the sweeping powers of a sovereign ruler and his attitudes towards religious toleration. The writer argues that, on both counts, Hobbes' political theory leans towards an authoritarian approach at odds with twenty-first century sensibilities.
From the Paper "It is only fair to suggest that, of all the great Western philosophers of the last four hundred years, Thomas Hobbes is inescapably the least-loved. Much of this, it can be argued, is his own doing. In a modern age that values the primacy of the individual and trumpets the virtues of small government, Hobbes' authoritarian leanings and his belief that the individual must be subjugated to the sovereign power of the state are views understandably ill-received. This paper examines how Hobbes' philosophy practically encourages a zealous monarch to conflate the state's interests with his own personal and selfish ones; moreover, this paper also examines Hobbes' political theories - at least as they are delineated in the Leviathan."
Abstract This paper presents an in depth look at the authoritarian personality types and its defining characteristics. The author examines characteristics such as persuasion, the use of threat, cynicism and obsession with power. Includes details about genetics and environmental influences.
From the Paper "The contempt-respect dichotomy that is the essence of authoritarianism is difficult to observe"it is not often that one sees submissiveness to authority followed immediately by aggressiveness to a subordinate"so the purpose of the current research is to find other ways of identifying individuals with this trait. Among its defining characteristics are submission, aggression, close-mindedness, superstition and stereotypy, fascination with power and authority, cynicism and destructiveness, sexual repression, belief in a dangerous world, and preference for convention. Authoritarians have extremely conservative views, are often racist, respond more strongly to threats than to rewards, and reject those outside of their narrow definition of ?acceptable.? These findings can positively influence the accuracy of an observer's judgments in everyday life, and, in doing so, can facilitate dealing with others."
A discussion of how Janet Lewis's novel, "The Wife of Martin Guerre," illustrates the concept that in an authoritarian society there is no regard for the interests and needs of individuals.
1,204 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 0 sources, 2005, $ 41.95
Abstract This paper discusses how Lewis demonstrates effectively, in her novel, by means of several major characters, such as Monsieur Guerre, Martin Guerre, and Bertrande, how the restrictive nature of the patriarchal system impacts negatively on individuals. It also shows how the clearly defined roles assigned to both women and men led to great difficulties on a personal level, which then have consequences that affect the community as a whole.
From the Paper "The role of men in the authoritarian society of rural France was both a powerful and frustrating one. The character of Monsieur Guerre is used effectively by Lewis to demonstrate the negative effects of the restrictions placed upon the male individual by society. The position of cap d'hostal is an extremely important one in the structure of the society. His supremacy is so complete that any actions not first approved by him are considered illegal, he has a great power over all members of his household and can expect complete obedience from them at all times. However, with this power comes a great burden. He is responsible for the welfare of all those under him, and so he must always act in a manner that will benefit the mesnie as a whole. As a result of this he is allowed little emotional freedom and expression. We can see the effects that the role of cap d'hostal has on the individual in Monsieur Guerre. Although a natural authoritarian figure, Monsieur Guerre harshness is accentuated by the burden of his position. On two occasions we can see the extent to which Monsieur Guerre must go to consider the welfare of his household. The first of these is the bear hunt which a young Marin takes part in. as Martin has not asked permission to go on the hunt; Monsieur Guerre is required to punish him."
Tags: arnaud, authoritarian, bertrande, france, guerre, martin, patriarchal
Abstract This paper evaluates the significance of authoritarian and participative leadership styles in today's society, with an emphasis on theories and other considerations for review. The paper shows that these styles contrast each other in dramatic ways, and that there is a strong need for continuity throughout organizations that possess these styles.
From the Paper "In modern organizations, leaders may adopt a variety of perspectives that guide them through their responsibilities as leaders and experts. It is the responsibility of these leaders to adopt a style that best suits their needs, and that provides support for all organizational objectives. There are a number of theories and concepts that have evolved regarding these leadership styles, and this information offers some answers with respect to why some leadership styles work for some people but not for others. The following discussion will assess the authoritarian and participative leadership styles in greater detail, with an emphasis on theory and practice in modern organizational settings. Leadership styles offer a number of key considerations for thought in modern settings, and with the knowledge in place, there are unlimited opportunities to develop a specific leadership style that will suit an individual's talents and skills."
Abstract This paper states that authoritative parents are demanding, responsive, and controlling, but not restrictive; whereas, authoritarian parents are demanding, but not responsive. The author points out that a family system based on authoritarian principles is uncommunicative, restricted, and without any sense of autonomy, creating a lack of care and nurturing and leading to an unhealthy environment for growth and development. The paper concludes that extensive research on the types of parenting indicates that an authoritative style is more beneficial than authoritarian.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review of the Literature
Discussion/Analysis
Conclusion
Reflections
From the Paper "The authoritarian style of parenting is associated with physical discipline such as spankings, beatings, and, or, slapping. "Although physical punishments will remain part of parenting for some, it is not necessary in raising a child. And it can have harmful side effects. Physical punishment appears to be more for the convenience or needs of the parent than for the good of the child". Children who grow up in an environment where violence is seen as acceptable tend to become violent."
Tags: cohesion, restrictive, responsive, punishment, system
Abstract The paper examines the film "Hoosiers," which shows that different leadership styles are effective in different situations. The paper discusses how the main character, Dale, employs the authoritarian style of leadership throughout most of the film. The paper shows that despite the fact that it initially fuels the flames of the already-existing hostility of both the team and community, it is ultimately the best style to use in these circumstances. The paper discusses the style of leadership suitable for supervising criminals, which would be authoritative or authoritarian that could be changed if prisoners show themselves trustworthy to a degree appropriate for taking responsibility. The paper relates that in supervising a team of officers, it is probably best to use the authoritarian style initially, but this can vary as appropriate to each individual situation.
From the Paper "Dale initially uses an authoritarian leadership style, bordering on the autocratic. This is the result of the extreme hostility that both the townspeople and the players display towards him. The authoritarian style is necessary in order to establish Dale's position as an authority in his field. Although it does little to endear the coach to those who make themselves his enemies, this leadership style proves effective in terms of results: under Norman's leadership, the team wins the 1952 Indiana State Championship."
Abstract The paper explores how China and South Korea appear to be diametrically opposed; China is authoritarian while South Korea is democratic. The paper discusses the modernizationist approach and shows how China is basically an authoritarian state while South Korea is democratic. The paper shows, however, how there are various aspects of these states that indicate neither one fits into a simple category, but instead both have moved at times in the opposite direction. The paper also shows how in both China and South Korea, the influence of tradition and ideology such as Confucianism has been beneficial for growth and development.
Outline:
Introduction
The Modernizationist Approach
Authoritarianism Democracy
A Unifying Force
Conclusion
From the Paper "What at first appears to be a sharp polarization between an authoritarian country and a democratic nation proves to be a complex matter. The modernizationist paradigm is based on "the attitudinal changes of the middle class, arguing that economic growth, urbanization, greater literacy rates, and organizational know-how help to stimulate middle-class participation in politics" (Text 12). Two very different types of modernization took place in South Korea and China. The rapid industrialization of South Korea in the 1970s and 1980s appeared to be related to state capacity and especially strategies used by the estate to overcome free markets and to accelerate growth. "Industrialization led to a new, much more diverse, complex and interrelated economy which becomes increasingly difficult for authoritarian regimes to control" (Text 13)."
An examination of how Latin America's current problems stem from a period of history (the National period), following independence, during which caudillismo was popular and personalistic politics and authoritarianism were the rule.
Abstract This paper asks and answers the following question: ?How do Latin America's problems owe a great deal to a tradition of caudillismo, personal politics and authoritarianism?? It will also give definitions for eight terms associated with Latin American studies: caudillismo, liberalism, The Export Boom, neocolonialism, import subsidizing industrialization, bureaucratic authoritarianism, and privatization.
From the Paper "This paper seeks to evaluate this premise, by analyzing a variety of sources and presenting various viewpoints concerning this particular posture. Indeed, Latin American political parties have often been allied with a particular leader ? for example, the Peronistas in Argentina, or the Fidelistas in Cuba ? and this particular branch of Latin American politics is commonly referred to as personalismo. This phenomenon is closely related to the phenomenon of caudillismo, under which a government is controlled by dictatorial leaders (caudillos) (Encyclopedia Britannica)."
Abstract This paper discusses concepts of social class and status. It particularly focuses on the views of Karl Marx and Max Weber. The paper also highlights issues on cultural divisions and status and analyzes the authoritarian divisions and the elite. The paper applies Marx's and Weber's views of social class to the situation in Australia and suggests that their perceptions cannot be applied there.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Class Status and Command Relations
Cultural Divisions and Status Analysis
Authoritarian Division and Elites
Class in Australia
Conclusion
From the Paper "Class is one of the central concepts in sociological analysis. Sociologists and/or popular critics have claimed, 'reduce everything to class'. There is a degree of truth in this claim, though many sociologists have recently alleged the 'death of class' (Clark and Lipset 1991). "Despite this fascination, however, class is a remarkably confused term, and at least two broad conceptions of class have characterized sociological work. On the one hand, class has been seen as referring to economic divisions and interests, while on the other hand it has been seen as referring to cultural distinctions" (Scott, 1997)."
Abstract This paper identifies and incorporates principles of leadership strategies that have been shown to be most effective for increasing organizational productivity among employees. It first analyzes whether employees are more productive when leaders use authoritarian, participative or delegative leadership styles. It then analyzes these respective leadership styles, organizational productivity and employee morale to identify the leadership style that is deemed most effective by a preponderance of the findings for increasing employee productivity. The paper contains tables.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Overview of KAM 6
Overview
PPPA 8612 Classical and Emerging Paradigms of Leadership
Breadth Component
Breadth Objectives
Review and Analysis
Background and Overview
Authoritarian Leadership
Participative Leadership
Delegative leadership
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Although some of the successful leaders studied by Dunn and Brasco clearly favored specific leadership styles the majority of the time, most leaders appeared to affect different leadership strategies at different times depending on changing circumstances. In fact, at least 80 percent of the supervisors interviewed by Dunn and Brasco, for example, reported they specifically chose the program their organizations adopted in what was an autocratic style of leadership; other cases involved a laissez-faire leadership style. Research by Lewin showed that laissez-faire, an abdicating style of leadership, was simply not effective as a rule though (Burke, 2002). Furthermore, some of the leaders studied by Dunn and Brasco employed a benevolent despot style of leadership, but when these same leaders were personally committed to a specific program, some reported working alongside their staff in a participative style of leadership (Dunn & Brasco)."
Abstract The paper studies the Serbian Otpor movement's actions and organizational structure in an attempt to obtain a greater understanding of its ability to succeed and its importance as a harbinger of emerging social movements in the 21st century. The paper examines the actions and ideas of Otpor as derived from the American political theorist Gene Sharp, using a framework grounded in Douglas North's institutional change theory. The paper emphasizes how the Otpor model is different from other revolutions because its movement sought to transform authoritarian institutions into democratic institutions, without regard for economic agendas in the short term. The paper then explores the organizational structure of Otpor using theoretical concepts adapted from Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri's ideas on "multitude." The paper includes an appendix on the pronunciation of Serbo-Croatian words and on the various Serbian cities.
Outline:
Introduction
Thesis
Background: Institutionalized Authoritarianism The lowering of transaction costs for democratic exchange
Turning informal tendencies into weapons of resistance
Destruction of the Enemy's Institutions (Pillars of Support)
Harbinger of Multitude
Conclusion
From the Paper "Former Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic's first name means "freedom" in Serbo-Croatian. His wife's first name, Mira, means "peace." For over a decade, Milosevic's rule and his name became synonymous with very different realities. "Stagnate," "stalled," or "static" may have been more appropriate names for the authoritarian, as Serbian society became frozen into a cultural and political vacuum filled only by Milosevic and his reactionary view of how Serbia should function. After four brutal wars, the obtainment of pariah status on the world stage, a deflated economy, the continued erosion of democracy and the proliferation of state-controlled media, Serbia did not appear to be fertile ground for dreamers to plant the seeds of hope."
Tags: Milosevi, revolutions, democracy, authoritarianism, multitude, Yugoslav, Left
Abstract This paper discusses the advantages of a presidential democracy over other forms of government such as a parliamentary democracy or authoritarian government.
From the Paper "Because we live in a democracy (specifically, a presidential democracy) we see the flaws in other forms of government. We know that there are certain rights that should be guaranteed and protected by the government and most Americans view democracy as the best political system in existence. However, if we were living in a country that was relatively economically backward and had a different type of political culture, we might not consider democracy the best system to govern the people. When debating which system is the ideal one for country, tradeoffs are involved. Sacrifices must be made to formulate the best governmental situation. "
