Legal-rational authority, as defined by Max Weber, is a type of power made legitimate by law, rules, and regulations that are rationally established and applied impartially. This form of authority is characteristic of modern bureaucratic organisations and states, where power is vested in positions or offices rather than in individuals based on tradition or personal charisma. Obedience is owed to the legally established rules and to those who hold positions of authority within that framework only when they are acting within the scope of those rules. Legal-rational authority emphasises competence, expertise, and adherence to formal procedures, contributing to efficiency and predictability in governance and organisational management. It is a cornerstone of modern democratic societies and bureaucratic structures.