Byzantinism

Byzantinism refers to a style of government, bureaucracy, or political culture characterized by complex, hierarchical, and often opaque procedures, emphasizing protocol, tradition, and formalities. Originating from the Byzantine Empire, it reflects a system where decisions are driven by elaborate rules and vested interests, sometimes at the expense of transparency and efficiency. In a broader sense, it can describe organizations or political environments that prioritize protocol and control over straightforward decision-making, often leading to bureaucracy-driven inertia and a focus on adherence to established procedures rather than substantive reform.