1.2 Who Governs? Elitism, Pluralism, and Tradeoffs

Elite theory posits that power in society is concentrated in the hands of a small, privileged group or class, known as the elite, who wield disproportionate influence over the political, economic, and social decision-making processes. This theory challenges the notion of a pluralistic democracy where power is widely distributed among various interest groups.

Pluralism: The theory that power in a society is distributed among multiple, competing groups and interests, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single elite.

Ruling Class: The small, privileged group or class that holds the most power and influence in a society according to elite theory.

Power Elites: The individuals and institutions, such as political, economic, and military leaders, who make up the elite class and wield significant power in society.

Pluralist theory is a political science concept that views power in society as being distributed among various competing groups and interests, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single elite group or government. It emphasizes the role of diverse social, economic, and political factions in shaping policy outcomes.

Elitism: The belief that power and decision-making in society are concentrated in the hands of a small, privileged group or class.

Interest Groups: Organized groups that seek to influence public policy and government decisions in favor of their particular interests or causes.

Lobbying: The act of attempting to influence government decisions and policies by advocating for or against specific legislation or regulations.

Representation refers to the process by which individuals or groups have their interests and concerns brought forth and considered in the political decision-making process. It is a fundamental principle of democratic governance, ensuring that the will and needs of the people are reflected in the actions and policies of the government.

Elitism: The belief that a small, elite group should make decisions and govern on behalf of the people, rather than the people directly participating in the political process.

Pluralism: The recognition that power and influence in a society is distributed among various groups and interests, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single elite.

Congressional Representation: The process by which members of the U.S. Congress are elected to represent the interests and concerns of their constituents at the federal level.

Political participation refers to the active involvement of citizens in the political process, including voting, contacting elected officials, attending town hall meetings, and engaging in other civic activities. It is a fundamental aspect of a healthy democracy, as it allows citizens to voice their opinions, influence decision-making, and hold their government accountable.

Civic Engagement: The active participation of citizens in their communities, often through volunteering, community service, or involvement in local organizations and initiatives.

Voter Turnout: The percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election, often used as a measure of political participation.

Lobbying: The act of attempting to influence government decisions and policies by individuals or groups, often through direct communication with elected officials or their staff.

Interest groups are organizations that seek to influence public policy and government decision-making on behalf of their members or a particular cause. They play a crucial role in the American political system, representing the diverse interests and concerns of citizens, businesses, and other stakeholders.

Pluralism: The idea that power in society is distributed among various groups, rather than concentrated in the hands of a few elite individuals or institutions.

Collective Action: The action taken by a group of individuals to achieve a common goal or address a shared concern.

Political Participation: The various ways in which citizens can engage with the political process, including voting, contacting representatives, and joining interest groups.

Power distribution refers to the way political power and authority are allocated and shared among different groups, institutions, and levels of government within a political system. It is a fundamental concept in understanding how decisions are made and who has the ability to influence those decisions.

Elitism: The belief that power and decision-making should be concentrated in the hands of a small, elite group of individuals or institutions, rather than being distributed more broadly.

Pluralism: The idea that power should be distributed among a variety of competing groups and interests, rather than being monopolized by a single group or institution.

Tradeoffs: The compromises or choices that must be made when there are competing priorities or interests, and the consequences of those choices.

Democratic accountability refers to the principle that elected officials and government institutions are responsible and answerable to the people they serve. It ensures that those in power are held accountable for their actions and decisions, aligning with the will and interests of the citizens.

Elitism: The belief that a small, elite group should have disproportionate control and influence over decision-making, often at the expense of broader public interests.

Pluralism: The recognition and acceptance of multiple, diverse interests and groups within a political system, with no single group dominating the decision-making process.

Tradeoffs: The idea that pursuing one policy or objective may come at the expense of another, requiring careful consideration of the costs and benefits involved in political decision-making.

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical division of a society into different social classes or strata based on factors such as wealth, income, education, occupation, and social status. It creates unequal access to resources, power, and opportunities within a given social system.

Elitism: The belief that a society should be governed by an elite group of individuals who are superior in abilities, intellect, or social status.

Pluralism: The recognition and acceptance of multiple, often competing, interests and power centers within a society.

Social Mobility: The movement of individuals or groups within a social hierarchy, either upward or downward, in terms of their socioeconomic status or class.

Policy influence refers to the ability of individuals, groups, or organizations to shape and impact the development, implementation, and outcomes of public policies. It is a central concept in understanding the dynamics of power and decision-making within the political system.

Elitism: The belief that a small, elite group of individuals or organizations holds disproportionate power and influence over the policymaking process, often at the expense of the broader public interest.

Pluralism: The idea that power and influence in the policymaking process are distributed among a variety of competing groups and interests, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single elite.

Tradeoffs: The concept that policymaking often involves making difficult choices between competing priorities and interests, where gains in one area may come at the expense of losses in another.