Secondary codifications are one, but only one, element that increases the communication media's capacity for performing the task of transmission required by the changing societal structure. They would have to be examined more closely in the context of a general theory of communication media. In addition, increasing power in proportion to the demands which develop in society depends on further symbols which can become associated with the power-code. This increase must not be understood solely as a heightened generalization of the code-symbols on a one-dimensional scale. Rather, changes in the level of power in societies which are becoming more complex come up against a multiplicity of different problems, the solutions to which have to be institutionalized into the power-code. Not every form of problem-solving is compatible with others, and all have their malfunctions. Their overall effect determines the respective level at which socially differentiated power functions.

DEFINE: Introduces the 'power-code' as a communication media concept, where institutionalized solutions to societal problems raise the level of power.

Niklas Luhmann, Trust and Power, loc. 645