Although the state's authority derives from the implicit threat of physical force,when the state resorts to physical coercion to enforce its will,its legitimate authority diminishes drastically.This is an example of:
A) legal coercion.
B) the paradox of authority.
C) government coercion.
D) domination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The given scenario is a clear example of the paradox of authority. The paradox of authority refers to the idea that the state must use the threat of violence to maintain its authority, but when it actually employs physical coercion, its legitimate authority decreases. Therefore, option B is the correct choice. The other options are not accurate in describing the situation. Legal coercion and government coercion have a broader connotation and do not necessarily highlight the paradox of authority. Dominance is a different concept altogether and not applicable here.

Although the State's Authority Derives from the Implicit Threat of Physical