Dominanssi

Dominanssi is a term used in social theory to describe the structured expression, negotiation, and contestation of dominance within social relations. It analyzes how individuals, groups, and institutions establish and maintain asymmetries of power, and how these asymmetries are legitimized, resisted, or transformed through everyday practices, discourse, and policy.

Etymology and usage: The word is formed from the root of dominant and the Finnish/European suffix -ssi, and is used primarily in multilingual theoretical discussions about power dynamics.

Theoretical framework: Dominanssi emphasizes that dominance is relational and contextual rather than an intrinsic trait. Key elements include control over resources and decision-making, access to information, and the ability to shape norms and meanings. It considers both overt forms (visible policy decisions, leadership appointments) and subtle forms (framing, agenda-setting, social expectations). It also recognizes resistance and counter-dominance as part of ongoing negotiation.

Applications: The concept is used to analyze organizations, workplaces, political movements, and digital platforms, where power is exercised through formal authority, cultural norms, and algorithmic or procedural controls.

Criticism: Some scholars argue that Dominanssi can risk overgeneralization if not anchored in concrete cultural contexts. Others point out challenges in measurement and the risk of reifying power as a fixed property rather than a dynamic process.

See also: power, authority, dominance hierarchy, social stratification.