The extent to which power and authority are retained at the top is called as

centralization
decentralization
responsibility
accountability

The correct answer is A. centralization.

Centralization is the concentration of power and authority in the hands of a few people or groups. It is often used in organizations to ensure efficiency and control. However, it can also lead to a lack of innovation and creativity, as well as a feeling of alienation among employees.

Decentralization is the opposite of centralization. It is the dispersal of power and authority to lower levels of an organization. This can lead to greater efficiency and innovation, as well as a greater sense of ownership and responsibility among employees. However, it can also lead to a lack of coordination and control.

Responsibility is the obligation to do something or to be accountable for something. It is often associated with authority, as those who have authority are also typically responsible for the consequences of their actions.

Accountability is the obligation to report to someone or to be answerable for one’s actions. It is often associated with responsibility, as those who are responsible for something are also typically accountable for it.

In the context of the question, the correct answer is A. centralization. This is because the question is asking about the extent to which power and authority are retained at the top. Centralization is the concentration of power and authority in the hands of a few people or groups, which is consistent with the question.