Which of the following characteristics describes authority?

A. It is vested in positions, not people.

B. Subordinates generally reject it.

C. It flows across the horizontal hierarchy.

D. It emerges from the organizational values.

E. Individuals are born with this power.

A. It is vested in positions, not people.

Explanation:

The key feature of authority is that it is vested in positions, not people. For example, the authority of the office of the president of the United States does not depend on the personality of the individual occupying the seat. The authority the position carries is vested in the oval office and not the individual.

Subordinates generally accept and abide by the instructions given by one in authority irrespective of their personal views.

Authority flows across the vertical hierarchy with the on at the top being the highest or higher authority to the positions below.

Power and authority are two different words. Power may be acquired.