---
entity_slug: feudal_anarchy
entity_type: Institution
vsm_system: S5
type_rationale: Feudal Anarchy represents a socially constructed governance structure
  (or lack thereof) characterized by decentralized rule systems where local lords
  exercise judicial, legislative, and military powers in the absence of centralized
  authority.
vsm_rationale: This historical period operates at the S5 level as it concerns the
  fundamental identity and ultimate authority structure of political systems, representing
  a particular form of political economy that Smith uses to explain the emergence
  of inheritance laws and property arrangements.
classified_at: '2026-02-23T11:06:24.890859'
---

# Classification: Feudal Anarchy

## Entity Type

Institution

## VSM System

S5

## Type Rationale

Feudal Anarchy represents a socially constructed governance structure (or lack thereof) characterized by decentralized rule systems where local lords exercise judicial, legislative, and military powers in the absence of centralized authority.

## VSM Rationale

This historical period operates at the S5 level as it concerns the fundamental identity and ultimate authority structure of political systems, representing a particular form of political economy that Smith uses to explain the emergence of inheritance laws and property arrangements.
