Question

Imagine there is a spiritual leader from any religion who has a huge estate, organisation, publications etc. In Weberian terms, this could be considered an example of

• A. patrimonial power.
• B. bureaucratised patrimonial power.
• C. charismatic power.
• D. bureaucratised charismatic power.

Hint:

Charisma often becomes bureaucratised over time to ensure continuity beyond the individual leader.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Identifying the source of authority.
Max Weber described charismatic authority as based on devotion to the exceptional sanctity, heroism, or exemplary character of an individual leader.
Step 2: Understanding routinisation of charisma.
When charismatic authority becomes institutionalised through organisations, administrative structures, and formal roles, it transforms into bureaucratised charisma.
Step 3: Application to the given case.
A spiritual leader with a large estate, organisation, and publications reflects the routinisation and bureaucratic management of originally charismatic authority.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, in Weberian terms, this is best described as bureaucratised charismatic power.