Eigenlast

Eigenlast is a theoretical construct used in sociology, ethics, and organizational studies to describe the internal burden borne by an agent as a result of participating in a social system. The term fuses the German roots eigen “own” and Last “burden,” reflecting the notion that part of an individual's load arises from internalized norms, duties, and expectations rather than from external coercion alone.

Definition and components: Eigenlast encompasses personal costs such as time, cognitive effort, emotional strain, and moral obligations attributed to role responsibilities. It is distinct from external costs or observable constraints because it resides in the agent’s perception and self-assessment, shaping decisions and well-being even when formal duties are unchanged.

Measurement and application: Researchers discuss approaches to approximate eigenlast, including self-report scales, time-use diaries, and analysis of role-related burnout. In organizational theory, eigenlast can illuminate why workers overextend themselves or resist change, even when formal duties are limited or ambiguous. The concept is used to examine how internalized expectations interact with structural constraints to influence behavior and welfare.

Examples and critiques: A nurse who must balance professional codes, patient advocacy, and emotional labor experiences eigenlast independent of wage or explicit job description. Critics argue that eigenlast is highly subjective and difficult to operationalize across contexts, while proponents view it as a useful lens on welfare, burnout, moral injury, and the burden of responsibility within social systems.

See also: internalized norms, role strain, burden, moral injury, and externalities.