However, influence on actions becomes less dependent on these initial conditions of generalization of motive because of the differentiation of a particular communication medium, i.e. power. Power can become independent of particular motivational preconditions to a greater extent than influence in general is able to. … These are all preconditions for social recognition of the contingency of influence – in other words, for the fact that obedient people accept a reduction by others of their potential for action, although this has come about merely through decision.

XREF: Luhmann's systems theory vs. Weber/Machiavelli on power; connects to how institutions stabilize authority beyond individual motivation.

Niklas Luhmann, Trust and Power, loc. 742