When you are a passenger on a train, you are much more likely to move to another seat if the ticket collector tells you to move than if another passenger tells you to do so. Use your knowledge of why people obey to explain this behaviour. (Total 4 marks

Model Answer

People are more likely to obey the ticket collector because they perceive them as a legitimate authority figure, due to their recognised role on the train. This legitimacy is reinforced by their uniform, which acts as a symbol of authority. In contrast, passengers lack this perceived authority, making their requests less compelling.