Definition:
Gatekeeping is the control of access to resources, opportunities, participation, or legitimacy by individuals or institutions with authority.
Usage Context:
Seen in media, academia, creative industries, online platforms, welfare systems, and professional fields.
Critical Note:
Gatekeeping is often justified as quality control or safeguarding. In practice, it frequently preserves existing power structures by restricting who is allowed to enter or be recognised.
Related Terms:
Legibility Requirement, Cultural Capture, Advantage Hoarding