A
system of imposing
order and
control in which a small
number of people can order around a somewhat larger number of
people, who in turn can
order around either other, specifically assigned small
groups of people or a single
group larger than this
second group.
In other words, people "
higher up" on the
pyramid can order those "beneath" them, either directly, indirectly, or whichever
way happens to
work best at the
time, to do things.
In specific circumstances. this system can work well; if the people "on top" understand precisely what's going on and how to accomplish whatever goals are being pursued and those of "lower" rank are assigned to clear and appropriate jobs, wonderful things can happen. Unfortunately, such circumstances are rare, but that doesn't stop people from establishing or maintaining such power structures, especially without planning them with the above concerns in mind.
See also power trip.