In Weber’s sociology, the notion “ideal type” can be referred to as an abstract model that is used as a basis for comparison and helps view the real world in a more systematic way. According to Ritzer (2016), under the concept of ideal types, Weber understood the identification of the individuality of development processes and the characteristics that caused these differences. In addition, Max Weber defines three main types of domination or authority that include legal, charismatic, and traditional authority. Traditional domination is generally legitimized by specific cultural and traditional patterns, charismatic – by a strong personality or character that can lead to obedience, and the legal authority means the legitimization of power by governmental regulations and laws.
For example, legal domination strongly relies on laws, governmental regulations, and rules that society considers appropriate and fair. The current system of power in the United States can be taken as an example of legal authority. The traditional type of domination is based on following traditional examples, and the power generally relies on experience and the lessons of the past. According to Durkheim (1952), historically traditionalism remains much stronger in the Midi, while Northern countries managed to change this form of authority. An example of this type of authority is the existing political system of Saudi Arabia, where the king is allowed to rule the country due to historical customs, and the citizens do not confront this type of power.
The last domination type is charismatic and is based on people’s beliefs in specific and exceptional characteristics of a political leader. It usually occurs during periods of political instability such as revolutions, strikes, civil wars; however, this type of power can be observed in several countries as an integral part of the authoritative system. For instance, the dictatorship of Julius Cesar, who occupied the ruling position in Rome without any legal support, formed a cult of personality.
References
Ritzer, G. (2016). Classical Sociological Theory, (9th Ed). Boston: McGraw Hill.
Durkheim, E. (1858-1917). Translated by John A. Spaulding and George Simpson; edited with an Introduction by George Simpson. (1952). Suicide: A Study in Sociology. London: Routledge & K. Paul.