Governing classes
Forms of existence
The three forms of existence that differ by class. Status existence (upper and middle class): loss of position is experienced as loss of existence; biological needs are relatively met, and the energy of Physis is channeled into the struggle for status. Biological existence (lower class): “survival” is meant literally; the threat is not loss of status but hunger, illness, homelessness. Functional existence (bureaucracy): three layers operate together — surviving on a salary, protecting the position, sustaining the function.
— Physis: A Theory of Power — Concept Glossary
The definition is from the Concept Glossary of Physis: A Theory of Power; the book will be published on Zenodo in October 2026. The English wording is provisional until the official English glossary is published.
| Author | Evren Öztürk |
|---|---|
| Published | 19 September 2026 |
| Research program | Physis |
| First appearance | Physis: A Theory of Power |
| Developed in | Physis: A Theory of Power — Chapter 4, §9.1 |