What is the difference between power and authority?

Power vs. Authority:

Power:
Power refers to the ability of an individual or a group to influence or control the behavior, actions, or decisions of others. It is the capacity to exert force, coercion, persuasion, or manipulation to achieve specific outcomes. Power can be formal, such as in organizational hierarchies, or informal, based on personal relationships and social influence. The essence of power lies in the ability to make others do something, even against their will, through various means.

Authority:
Authority, on the other hand, is a specific form of power that is recognized and legitimized within a social or institutional context. It is the right to exercise power granted by a legitimate source, such as laws, traditions, or established structures. Authority is often associated with positions of leadership or roles within formal organizations. Unlike power, authority implies a socially accepted right to command and direct others. It is based on consent and legitimacy, making it a more stable and accepted form of social influence.