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MENTAL MODEL · M4962

Social Dominance Theory

Social Dominance Theory
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Human societies tend to form group-based hierarchical structures (e.g., age, gender, and ethnic hierarchies). These hierarchies are maintained by 'legitimizing myths' (e.g., eugenics, meritocracy). There is always a force in society that attempts to maintain this hierarchy (social dominance orientation) and another force that attempts to flatten it.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

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The structural dynamics of inequality. It explains why discrimination and oppression are so persistent. Because hierarchical structures provide stability and resources for the top, and a (illusory) sense of order for the bottom. To break it, one must attack both the hierarchical structure itself and the 'myths' behind it.

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The theory posits a universal tendency in human social organization towards intergroup hierarchy (stratification). Individuals possess a stable personality dimension called 'social dominance orientation' (SDO); those high in SDO are more supportive of hierarchy and inequality. Institutions, cultural narratives, and 'legitimizing myths' work together to make even the lower strata partially internalize the hierarchical order, thereby maintaining system stability.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_dominance_theoryZH · Explicit
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