We want to talk of chains only when, and in so far as, A can arrange not only any of B's actions but specifically his exercise of power, i.e. when A has at his disposal B's power over C. Therefore, a chain does not exist if the king can command the general, if the latter can give his wife orders and she her servants, who, likewise because of their position, are able to tyrannize their neighbours. But a chain only exists if and in so far as the power-holder can intervene in the chain.

DEFINE: Distinguishes nested command hierarchies from genuine chains of power: a chain exists only when the top power-holder can intervene at every point, not merely issue orders down the line.

Niklas Luhmann, Trust and Power, loc. 655