Why might someone rely on authority in decision-making?

Relying on authority in decision-making allows individuals to benefit from established knowledge and expertise that has already been vetted and validated by professionals in a particular field. This shortcut can save time and effort, as it enables decision-makers to draw on the insights and findings of experts rather than engaging in extensive personal research. By trusting authoritative sources, individuals can make informed choices based on credible evidence and expert consensus, which can lead to more effective and reliable outcomes.

In many contexts, particularly in complex fields where understanding is nuanced and requires specialized knowledge, leaning on established authority provides reassurance and guidance. This approach is pragmatic, especially when timely decisions are necessary, or when individuals may lack the expertise to thoroughly analyze every aspect of a situation themselves.