A classic sociological theory (C. Wright Mills) arguing that modern societies are dominated by a unified triangle of power: the corporate rich, the political directorate, and the military high command. These elites share similar social backgrounds, education, and interests, and they move seamlessly between the three sectors. They make the key decisions on war, economy, and law, while the masses are merely spectators. It’s a critique of pluralism, suggesting the groups at the top are in cahoots, not competition.
Example: A defense CEO sits on a university board with a retired general, who golfs with a senator. They all agree on the need for a new weapons system. The senator inserts the funding into a bill, the general testifies to its necessity, and the CEO gets the contract. This closed loop of decision-making by a small, interlocking cadre is the Theory of Power Elites in action.
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal February 4, 2026
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When a pre-existing franchise adaptation tries so hard to feel “epic” and cinematic that it forgets the story, characters, and themes that made the original beloved. Named after the Amazon series that turned a classic Tolkien tale into a confusing, melodramatic spectacle.
Symptoms include:
Gratuitous CGI and flashy setpieces that overshadow the plot
Characters acting in ways that make no sense just to create drama
Important lore ignored or rewritten for shock value
Fans collectively asking, “Wait… what timeline is this even in?”
When a pre-existing franchise adaptation tries so hard to feel “epic” and cinematic that it forgets the story, characters, and themes that made the original beloved. Named after the Amazon series that turned a classic Tolkien tale into a confusing, melodramatic spectacle.
Symptoms include:
Gratuitous CGI and flashy setpieces that overshadow the plot
Characters acting in ways that make no sense just to create drama
Important lore ignored or rewritten for shock value
Fans collectively asking, “Wait… what timeline is this even in?”
by TheNinjaSandwich February 6, 2026
Get the Rings of Power Effect mug.Analyzes science as a system of power, not just truth. It asks: Who has the authority to certify knowledge? Who controls the labs, journals, and grants? Scientific power is the ability to set research agendas, define legitimate methods, anoint experts, and declare what counts as a "fact" with real-world consequences.
Theory of Scientific Power Example: A pharmaceutical company funds dozens of clinical trials on its new drug. It exercises scientific power by strategically publishing only the favorable studies, influencing treatment guidelines through sponsored key opinion leaders, and shaping the entire medical consensus around its product, turning research into a tool for market dominance.
by Dumu The Void February 7, 2026
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