Obedience refers to compliance with the directives, commands, or instructions given by higher authorities in a hierarchical structure, such as in a workplace, military organisation, or within a family. It involves following the orders or rules set by those in positions of power or authority, even if one might personally disagree with them. Obedience is often seen as necessary for maintaining order and efficiency in hierarchical systems, but it can also raise ethical concerns when individuals are asked to follow commands that they believe are wrong or harmful, as highlighted by studies like the Milgram experiment on obedience to authority.