HEGEMONY:

The predominant influence, as of a state, region, or group, over another or others.
The term 'hegemony' refers to leadership, dominance or great influence that one entity or group of people has over others. Historically, this term often referred to a city-stateor country that exterted power over other city-states or countries indirectly rather tan military force. Modern uses of 'hegemony' often refer to a group in a society having power over others within the societty. For example, the wealthy class might be said to have hegemony over the poor because of its ability to use its money to influence many aspects of society and government.