Legitimacy refers to the perception or recognition that an individual, institution, rule, or action is appropriate, justified, and accepted within a given context.

• Legal legitimacy: Based on conformity with established laws or rules.
• Moral or ethical legitimacy: Based on shared values, fairness, or justice.
• Professional legitimacy: Recognition of authority or competence within a specific field (e.g., medicine, law).
• Sociopolitical legitimacy: Acceptance by the public or a community that grants authority to a leader, policy, or institution.

• Recognition by others
• Justification of authority or action
• Acceptance as valid or rightful
• Often linked to trust and credibility

• A neurosurgical training program gains legitimacy when it is accredited by a national board and recognized by leading hospitals and academic societies.

• Authority
• Credibility
• Validity