Definition:
Authority framing is the presentation of information, decisions, or narratives in a way that draws legitimacy from perceived expertise, status, or institutional power rather than from evidence or accountability.
Usage Context:
Seen in government communication, corporate messaging, expert panels, policy announcements, media commentary, and platform governance.
Critical Note:
Authority framing discourages questioning by positioning dissent as ignorance, irresponsibility, or bad faith. When authority replaces justification, power is stabilised without requiring transparency or consent.
Related Terms:
Authority Bias, Authority Laundering, Legitimacy Laundering, Compliance Framing, Power Imbalance