Authority is both formal and informal.

Authority can exist in both formal and informal contexts. It is not limited to just one type of authority, but rather encompasses a range of situations and relationships. It is important to understand the distinctions between formal and informal authority in order to comprehend the complexity of authority in society.

Formal Authority:
- Formal authority refers to the authority that is granted to individuals or groups through a formal structure or system. It is based on established rules, regulations, and positions within an organization or institution.
- Examples of formal authority include positions such as managers, supervisors, teachers, government officials, and elected representatives.
- Formal authority is typically accompanied by specific roles, responsibilities, and decision-making powers.

Informal Authority:
- Informal authority, on the other hand, emerges through social interactions and relationships, rather than being officially designated or defined by a formal structure.
- Informal authority is based on personal qualities, expertise, experience, charisma, or the ability to influence others.
- It is often seen in situations where individuals possess knowledge, skills, or social connections that give them influence over others, even if they do not hold a formal position of authority.
- Examples of informal authority include influential community leaders, opinion leaders, mentors, or individuals who are highly respected and trusted by others.

Interplay between Formal and Informal Authority:
- In many cases, formal and informal authority can coexist and interact with each other. Individuals with formal authority may also possess informal authority, and vice versa.
- For example, a manager in an organization may have formal authority over their subordinates due to their position, but they may also have informal authority based on their expertise and the respect they have gained from their team members.
- Similarly, an influential community leader may not hold any formal position, but they may have significant informal authority due to their ability to mobilize and influence others.

Conclusion:
Authority is not limited to either formal or informal contexts. It can exist in both forms, depending on the situation and the individuals involved. Recognizing and understanding the interplay between formal and informal authority is crucial for comprehending power dynamics and social structures within organizations and society as a whole.