Maktbaserte

Maktbaserte is a Norwegian term used to describe phenomena, processes, or structures that are driven by or dependent on power relations. The adjective characterizes conditions in which outcomes are shaped more by who holds power and how it is exercised than by universal rules, equal participation, or merit alone. The term is commonly used in sociology, political science, organizational studies, and critical theory to analyze how power asymmetries affect decision-making, resource distribution, and access to influence.

Etymology and usage: Maktbaserte is formed from makt meaning power and basert meaning based. It is used in various contexts as maktbaserte forhold (power-based relations), maktbaserte beslutningsprosesser (power-based decision-making), or maktbaserte strukturer in organizations or institutions. The form is often applied in compound phrases to denote the influence of power on specific phenomena.

Applications and examples: In governance, a maktbasert system emphasizes authority concentrated in a few actors. In education or media, it can describe curricula, knowledge production, or narratives shaped by dominant groups. In research, a maktbasert analyse foregrounds power relations as determinants of outcomes, rather than treating stakeholders as equal participants. The concept is frequently used to examine issues such as legitimacy, access to resources, and control over policy agendas.

See also: power dynamics, critical theory, governance, social inequality.