Weber's Theory of Charismatic Authority - Lecture 19

Explore Weber's concept of charismatic authority in this 49-minute lecture from Yale University's "Foundations of Modern Social Thought" course. Delve into the revolutionary and unstable nature of charismatic authority, contrasting it with traditional and legal-rational forms. Examine how Weber adapts the religious term "charisma" for secular use, analyzing the belief in leaders' divine connections or exceptional qualities. Investigate the revolutionary potential of charismatic authority in changing societal attitudes and values, while understanding its inherent instability. Learn about the challenges of maintaining and transferring charismatic authority, including methods of identifying successors. Gain insights into the irrationality of charisma, its impact on followers, and the complexities of routinization in this comprehensive exploration of Weber's social theory.