What is the term used to describe the power to exact obedience, according to the SORM?

The term that describes the power to exact obedience, according to the Standards of Conduct for the Military (SORM), is authority. Authority refers to the right or power to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. In a military context, authority is essential for maintaining order, ensuring that commands are followed, and achieving organizational goals.

Understanding authority is crucial for military personnel because it underpins the command structure and the relationships between different ranks. When a person possesses authority, they have the legitimacy to command others, which is foundational for unit cohesion and operational effectiveness. Authority facilitates communication, order, and control within the ranks, ensuring that commands are carried out efficiently.

The other concepts, while important in their own right, do not precisely capture the notion of having the power to enforce obedience as authority does. Responsibility involves the duty to act appropriately within one's role but does not alone imply the power to command. Discipline refers to the training and adherence to rules and standards but is a result of effective authority rather than a term that describes the power itself. Control may relate to the ability to direct or manage, which can involve the use of authority, but it encompasses broader aspects of management and oversight.