Authority provides both permission to act and:

Authority is a critical concept in military and organizational structures, serving not only to grant permission for certain actions but also to establish a framework within which those actions should be executed. This framework includes guidance on procedures, standards, and objectives, which ensures that actions are aligned with the overarching mission, values, and laws of the organization.

When authority provides guidance and limitations, it helps maintain order, accountability, and coherence in decision-making processes. This ensures that individuals operate within defined constraints, which can prevent chaos and ensure that organizational goals are met effectively and efficiently. The presence of clear guidelines allows those who are granted authority to understand their responsibilities and the boundaries within which they must operate, making it easier to coordinate efforts and resources.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of authority in a structured organization, as they suggest a level of unregulated action or command that does not align with the principles of leadership and accountability that underpin responsible authority.