iron cage

• Метафорический термин, описывающий ситуацию, когда люди или общество оказываются в ловушке жестких, обесчеловечивающих систем или структур, часто связанных с бюрократией, рациональностью или социальными ограничениями.

A metaphorical term describing a situation where individuals or society are trapped in rigid, dehumanizing systems or structures, often associated with bureaucracy, rationality, or social constraints.

1. Sociological conceptC1formal

   A metaphor for the increasing rationalization and bureaucracy in modern society, trapping individuals in impersonal systems.

   Железная клетка

   • Max Weber's concept of the iron cage describes how bureaucracy limits human freedom.
   • Many feel trapped in the iron cage of corporate life.
   • The iron cage of modern society can lead to a sense of disenchantment.

2. Literal objectB1formal

   A cage made of iron, used for confinement or display.

   Железная клетка

   • The lion was kept in an iron cage at the zoo.
   • The old prison had iron cages for the most dangerous inmates.
   • An iron cage stood in the corner of the medieval dungeon.